Follicular dynamics in synchronized Italian Mediterranean buffalo cows.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the length and the characteristics of the oestrous cycle in Italian Mediterranean buffalo cows, undergone synchronization of ovulation. The trial was performed on 32 buffaloes synchronized by the Ovsynch Program, which consists of an injection of GnRH on day 0, PGF2alfa on day 7 and GnRH on day 9. Starting on day 10 (Day 0 of the new cycle). Buffaloes undergone ultrasound examination of the ovaries on alternate days until the following heat. Follicular growth and corpus luteum formation and dimensions were recorded as well as the number of follicular waves. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA. Four animals (12.5%) did not show signs of oestrous and were excluded from the trial. The mean length of the oestrous cycle was 23.7±3.4 days. In particular, 1 animal (3.6%) showed an oestrous cycle characterized by 1 follicular wave with a length of 16 days, 17 subjects (60.7%) showed 2 follicular waves with a cycle length of 22.4±2.3 days and 10 buffaloes (35.7%) showed 3 follicular waves with a cycle of 26.8±2.0 days. These results confirm previous reports performed in buffalo species, although the cycle resulted longer in the 3-waves group.