Studies on progesterone concentration and fertility response in postpartum subestrus buffaloes during breeding and low breeding seasons

The dairy and livestock sector plays a very important role in national economy of India by contributing close to one third of gross income of rural households and nearly half of gross income in case of those without land. Subestrus is the most prevalent, frustrating and challenging problem encountered in postpartum buffaloes. Postpartum subestrus is one of the most prevalent, frustrating and challenging reproductive problem encountered in rural resulting into prolonged inter-calving period, reduced milk production and thus greatly affecting the economy of our farming community.

The present study was carried out on Graded Murrah buffaloes during the period from September 2017 to August 2019 (includes breeding and low breeding season) which were maintained at farm and field. Treatment of sub-estrus lactating graded Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) using Double PGF₂ α (DPG) and Presynch-Ovsynch (POVS) their influence on fertility in farm and field condition during breeding and low breeding season was studied. Total cholesterol and progesterone concentration was recorded during different days/period of protocols. Further, overall per cent conception and pregnancy rates were recorded and compared between two protocols.

Progesterone levels increased significantly on day 21 post AI in pregnant buffaloes, whereas decreased significantly in non-pregnant buffaloes both in farm and field during breeding and low breeding season. The overall per cent conception and pregnancy rates were higher in POVS group than DPG group at both farm and field as well as during breeding and low breeding seasons.