Abstract
BREEDING activity in sheep in temperate climates is predominantly controlled by the photoperiod. The mechanism governing sexual activity in tropical sheep has not yet been elucidated. During current studies of this problem Persian Blackhead ewes were exposed to an experimental light regime similar to that used to induce œstrus in Suffolk ewes at Cambridge, England, namely, 14 hours dark, 4 hours light, 2 hours dark and 4 hours light1. Results regarding sexual activity were inconclusive but the coats of the treated ewes grew long, dense and shaggy. The coats of control ewes were sleek and short. Managerial conditions other than the light treatment were identical for the two groups of ewes.
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SYMINGTON, R. Light Regulation of Coat-Shedding in a Tropical Breed of Hair Sheep. Nature 184, 1076 (1959). https://doi.org/10.1038/1841076a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/1841076a0
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