Effects of human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) on plasma hormonal profile and egg production in local guinea hens

Abstract

Commercial production of guinea hens is limited because they are known to be seasonal breeders, with little or no eggs during the dry season. Natural hormones or their analogue have gained special appeal and usage as means of improving the reproductive performances of farm animals due to the health concerns associated with use of synthetic hormones. Human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) consists of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and is aimed at improving reproductive performance. Five doses (0, 6, 12, 18 and 24 IU) of HMG were administered to guinea hens in two phases (dry and rainy seasons) to evaluate the effect on the follicle stimulating and luteinizing hormone profile and egg production for a period of eleven months. The effects were monitored during the administration and post administration periods. Egg collection was done daily and blood was collected from the birds on fortnight basis to determine concentration of FSH and luteinizing hormone LH. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance appropriate for 2x2x5 factorial design. LH and FSH concentrations were correlated with egg production. Results indicated that both LH and FSH concentrations were higher (P<0.05) in the rainy season and during the period of post administration of HMG while doses of HMG had no effect (P>0.05) on the concentration of both hormones. LH and FSH were positively correlated in both seasons but the correlation was highly significant (P<0.01) only in the rainy season. Low negative correlation existed between egg production and LH in the dry season while positive, low and nonsignificant (P>0.05) correlation was observed in the rainy season. In conclusion, administration of HMG could be used to boost egg production in guinea hens.

Key words: guinea hen, follicle stimulating hormone, hen day production, luteinizing hormone