Explain briefly four of the following terms in animal production (a) oestrus cycle (b) heat period (c) gestation period (d) parturition (e) colostrum.
(a) Oestrus cycle: The oestrus cycle refers to the reproductive cycle in female mammals, characterized by the periodic occurrence of oestrus or heat. It involves hormonal changes in the female's body, leading to the release of an egg from the ovaries and preparation of the reproductive tract for potential fertilization.
(b) Heat period: The heat period or oestrus period refers to the stage of the oestrus cycle during which the female is sexually receptive and able to conceive. This is when the female displays certain behaviours and physical changes, such as restlessness, vocalization, and swelling of the vulva.
(c) Gestation period: The gestation period refers to the time period between conception and birth in mammals. It varies between species, but in general, it is around 9 months in humans and can range from a few weeks to over a year in other animals.
(d) Parturition: Parturition is the process of giving birth in mammals, which involves the expulsion of the foetus and placenta from the uterus through the birth canal. It is triggered by hormonal changes and can be accompanied by strong contractions of the uterus.
(e) Colostrum: Colostrum is the first milk produced by female mammals after giving birth, which is rich in antibodies and other immune-boosting substances. It provides important nutrients and immunity to the newborn and is crucial for their survival and healthy development.
(a) Oestrus cycle: The oestrus cycle refers to the reproductive cycle in female mammals, characterized by the periodic occurrence of oestrus or heat. It involves hormonal changes in the female's body, leading to the release of an egg from the ovaries and preparation of the reproductive tract for potential fertilization.
(b) Heat period: The heat period or oestrus period refers to the stage of the oestrus cycle during which the female is sexually receptive and able to conceive. This is when the female displays certain behaviours and physical changes, such as restlessness, vocalization, and swelling of the vulva.
(c) Gestation period: The gestation period refers to the time period between conception and birth in mammals. It varies between species, but in general, it is around 9 months in humans and can range from a few weeks to over a year in other animals.
(d) Parturition: Parturition is the process of giving birth in mammals, which involves the expulsion of the foetus and placenta from the uterus through the birth canal. It is triggered by hormonal changes and can be accompanied by strong contractions of the uterus.
(e) Colostrum: Colostrum is the first milk produced by female mammals after giving birth, which is rich in antibodies and other immune-boosting substances. It provides important nutrients and immunity to the newborn and is crucial for their survival and healthy development.