What is it about?
Androgens levels can be measured in faeces by measuring androgens metabolite, as it has been shown that metabolites concentrations in faeces reflect the levels of androgens in the blood. This paper that this technique (non-invasive method) can be used to evaluate the androgens levels in male roan antelope. We have shown in this study that the levels of androgens in male roan antelope increase during the rut. During this period, reproductive males also frequently exhibit sexual behaviour and the frequency of behaviours exhibited depends on the levels of androgens.
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Photo by Angelo Casto on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Our findings show how hormonal levels of androgens vary in male roan antelope. These findings fill an existing gap in the reproductive physiology of the roan antelope. Further, the information provided can be used by breeders to improve their reproductive outcomes.
Perspectives
This research work was quite impressive as the method used herein can be applied to other endangered ungulate species and I hope this article helps other researchers of the domain.
Vanessa Kamgang
University of Bamenda
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Reproductive events and respective faecal androgen metabolite concentrations in captive male roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus), PLoS ONE, December 2020, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243277.
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