Livestock Studies 1999, Vol 39, Num, 2     (Pages: 085-094)

Effect of Β-Carotene on Reproductive Functions of Some Farm Animals

Sevket ARIKAN 1 ,Ö. Hakan MUĞLALI 1

1 Kırıkkale Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi – Kırıkkale - Vitamin A deficiency has long been known to affect reproductive function in farm animals. However, more recent studies are indicating that b-carotene may also play a role in reproduction, independent of that exerted by vitamin A. Β-Carotene is a precursor for the vitamin A. Dietary deficiencies of Β-carotene will decrease reproductive efficiency by directly or indirectly impairing ovarian function and the uterine environment, there by influencing oestrus, conception and pregnancy. This review focuses on the functional role of Β-carotene in the reproductive process of bovine, sheep, rabbit and pig. Keywords : Carotene, Reproduction, Ovaryum, Corpus Luteum