Effects of reproductive season on embryo development in the buffalo

Abstract

Interest in buffalo farming is increasing worldwide due to the critical role played by buffaloes as sources of animal protein in tropical and subtropical environments. However, reproductive seasonality negatively affects the profitability of buffalo farming. Buffaloes tend to be short-day breeders, with seasonality patterns increasing with greater distances from the Equator. Although ovarian cyclic activity may occur throughout the year, seasonal anoestrus and cycles in calving and milk production are recorded. When buffaloes are forced to mate during the unfavourable season, to meet market demand, they may undergo a higher incidence of embryo mortality. This review addresses the effects of the reproductive season on embryo development in the buffalo, analysing the different factors involved in determining embryo mortality during the unfavourable season, such as impaired luteal function, oocyte competence and sperm quality. The review then focuses on strategies to control the photoperiod-dependent annual fluctuations in conception and embryo mortality in the female buffalo.