In vivo embryo production in some native goat breeds in Turkey

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of the repeated administration of superovulatory protocol and surgical procedure in in vivo embryo production, as well as to determine the differences in the responses to superovulatory treatment among several Turkish native goat breeds (Angora, Kilis, Honamli, Hair, and Norduz). A superovulatory treatment procedure was repeated 3 times in this study. The estrus cycles were synchronized and superovulatory response was induced with porcine follicle-stimulating hormone during the natural breeding season. Natural mating was performed following CIDR removal. Embryo recovery was performed surgically on day 6, after the first mating. According to the recovery results, the fertilization rates showed variability in Angora goats (50, 100, and 24.49, respectively, for cycles 1, 2, and 3) and Honamli goats (100, 42.48, and 56.25) (P < 0.05), while recovery rates showed no difference among the other breeds. The number of transferable embryos (TEs) showed no significant differences after 3 operations for Angora, Kilis, Honamli, and Hair goats, while the number of TEs decreased in in the third cycle in Norduz goats. The results indicate that Turkish native goat breeds can be utilized as donors in multiple ovulation and embryo transfer programs for at least 3 times with suitable operation techniques, superovulation treatments, and waiting periods among treatments. © TÜBİTAK.