Effects of Using Melatonin Implants and Syncro-Part Pessaries + PMSG on Reproduction Performance in Tsigai Breed Ewes

Investigations were carried out in a commercial farm from Beba Veche, western Romania, on a number of 80 yearling ewes of 17-18 months of age from the native Tsigai. First group (V1), numbering 40 ewes received during out of season breeding (30.05.2011) a dose of 18 mg subcutaneous melatonin implants (Melovin®), while the second group (V2) consisting out of 40 ewes were treated with subcutaneous melatonin implants + 30 mg FGA (Syncro-Part pessaries) + 500 IU PMSG. Control group was represented by 40 intact females. Ewes were put to ram in 7th of July 2011. Researches shown that in ewes treated with melatonin, 30 mg FGA + 500 IU PMSG (V2) the conception rate was of 82.1%, with a prolificacy of 150%, and a weaning rate of 1.2 lamb/ewe. In V1 group, the weaning rate was of 0.9 lambs/ treated ewe, with significantly lower production costs. Ewes from the control group produced a lamb crop of 0.42 lambs/ewe, significantly less (p≤0.05) comparing to V1 and V2 experimental groups. It was concluded that in Tsigai breed, although the V2 group performed better (producing 48 lambs) compared to V1 group (36 lambs), the difference of 12 lambs does cover additional production costs, therefore the use of melatonin implants alone should be recommended.