Fecundity profiles and physiological traits of Iraqi Awassi ewes supplemented mulberry leaves powder extract

Abstract

Abstract The fecundity efficacy of ewes depends on reproductive hormones, ovarian activity so the current research was designed to improve the fecundity of Iraqi anestrous ewes by mulberry leaves (Morus alba) powder extract supplementation. 30th healthy non-pregnant ewes aged 2-3.5 year outbreeding season were divided into equal three groups, 1st group represent a (control) had fed the standard diet, second and third group represent T1 and T2 supplemented 15 and 30 mg/kg mulberry powder extract, respectively, for 40 day before sponge insertion. At day 28th of beginning supplementation the intra-vaginal sponge were inserted for 12 days. After sponges eliminated, estrous onset reported and blood collected before 20 and after 23 & 40 hrs of VSPR to estimate FSH, LH, progesterone and Estradiol concentration. Also, the fecundity, lambing and prolificacy rates had manifested. The results recorded a significant elevation in FSH, estradiol and LH while progesterone registered significant decreased in T1 &T2 comparing with C at 23 & 40 hr after VSPR. Also the fecundity, lambing rates were significantly higher in T1 &T2 in comparing with C. In concluded, that the mulberry leaves powder extract can augment the fecundity in anestrus Iraqi ewes by enhancing the fecundity profile and prolificacy rate.