Fertility response following ablation-induced follicular wave emergence an ovulation induction in anestrous buffaloes

The fertility response following induction of follicular wave emergence by follicle ablation combined with progesterone based ovulation synchronization in postpartum anestrous buffaloes was assessed. Postpartum anestrous buffaloes (n=24) with absence of overt estrus signs categorized as treatment group (Group 1; n=15) and control group (Group 2; n=9). Group 1 was subjected to transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicle ablation on a random day of the estrous cycle (Day=0) and insertion of CIDR. Seven days later, CIDR was removed and prostaglandin F-2 alpha analogue was given intramuscularly. GnRH analogue was injected on day 9.5 and fixed-time AI was done 12 h and 24 h later. Ultrasonography was performed to follow ovarian structures on different occasions and on day 38 postovulation for detecting pregnancy. Group 2 did not receive any treatment however, estrus detection in this group was done daily by bull parading and visual monitoring followed by AI if found in standing estrus. In treatment group. the follicular wave emergence occurred by 24 h following ablation in 60% buffaloes and in 40% remaining animals by 48 h. The estrus exhibition was 100 % in group 1 versus 22.2 % in group 2. Mean interval from CIDR removal to ovulation was 81.2 +/- 3.08 h and from wave emergence to ovulation was 9.92 +/- 0.18 days. The first service pregnancy rate in treatment group was higher than control (66.67% vs 22.2%). The induction of follicular wave emergence through ultrasound guided follicle ablation and progesterone based ovulation synchronization can be used to improve pregnancy rates in anestrous buffaloes.