Serum testosterone profile in breeding rams

Abstract

Serum testosterone profile of Patanwadi and half bred Merino rams was studied to ascertain the effect of
breed. season and semen collection stimulus. Patanwadi rams had a significantly higher concentration of hormone
(6 .1 :! ± 0.39 ngtml.) with a concomitant rise during the breeding season (6.89 ± 0.61 ng/ml.) in comparison to half
bred Merinos (4.58 ± 0.37 ngtml.). In both the breeds. testosterone increased significantly just prior to semen
collection. 7.38 ± 0.53 and 6.00 ± 0.43 ng/ml.; and thereafter decreased to lowest following 60 minutes later to
ejaculation. 4.89 ± 0.48 and 3.12 ± 0.49 ng/ml. in Patanwadi and cross bred rams, respectively. It was concluded from
the results that blood serum testosterone profile was influenced by the breed and semen collection stimulus in
both breeds while. seasonal variations were restricted to only Patanwadi rams.