Effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids in pre-mating diets on the number and size of ovarian follicles Afshari ewes

In order to investigate the effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids in pre-mating diets on the number and size of ovarian follicles and reproductive performance ewes, thirty two Afshari ewes were synchronized for estrus during breeding season and were assigned to four diets in a completely randomized design. Experimental rations were regulated with 3% supplemental fat 1) Sunflower oil (SFO), 2) Fish oil (FO), 3) Calcium salt of palm oil (CaPO), and 4) an equal blend of SFO with similar Metabolisable Energy (2.43 Mcal/kg) and Crude Protein (17.8%). Ewes were adapted with basal diet for 12 days and then received the experimental diets for two weeks. Ultrasonography was conducted on ovaries in CIDR removal and mating days (estrus) to study the number and size of follicles. Adding fish oil increased number of large follicles in days CIDR removal (1.50mm) and mating (2.25mm) and also increased size of large follicles in day mating (5.70mm). Mixture of unsaturated oils reduced the number and size of follicles compared to using them alone in pre-mating diets (P