Allocation of Resources to Reproduction

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperChapterpeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

http://www.cabi.org/bk_BookDisplay.asp?PID=2097
This chapter begins with a brief overview of the physiological links between the metabolic and reproductive control systems, but we will not go into the detail because authoritative reviews are already available (e.g., Robinson et al., 2006; Blache et al., 2007). Most of the chapter will, instead, focus on three major topics: i) a quantification of energy demands and costs associated with the various stages of the reproductive process in males and females; ii) the consequences of not satisfying those demands; and iii) the value of ‘nutritional pharmacology’, in which we can take advantage of windows of opportunity in the reproductive process to provide acute, timely supplements that will improve reproductive outcomes at minimal cost. In covering these topics, we will deal mostly with the sheep, the animal with which we have the most direct experience, with occasional diversions to other species, because there is no information from sheep studies, or because there are species differences that need to be highlighted. In general, we will try to deal with broad principles that can be applied to all species.
Energetics calculations
• Seasonal pasture cycles in relation to alternative timing for pregnancy and lactation
• Consequences of energy deficiency: puberty, sperm production, sexual behaviour (male, female), ovulation rate, fetal programming, post-natal survival
• Nutritional pharmacology and ‘focus feeding’
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationResource Allocation Theory Applied to Farm Animal Production
EditorsW.M. Rauw
Place of PublicationWallingford
PublisherCABI Publishing
Chapter10
Pages169-191
ISBN (Print)9781845933944
Publication statusPublished - 2008

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Allocation of Resources to Reproduction'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this