Seasonal Varitaons of Serum Retinol and Beta-caroten levels in Angora Goats
2 T ,K.B,, Lalahan Hayvancılık Araştırma Enst, Müdürlüğü, 06852-Lalahan/ ANKARA - Research was conducted with Angora goats to investigate seasonal variation of serum retinol and beta-carotene levels. Monthly blood samples were collected. Blood serum retinol and beta-carotene levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatographic method.
Serum beta-carotene and retinol concentrations of monthly collected blood samples were changed between 450-800 mcg/100 ml and 50-80 mcg/100 ml in September, October and November, 150-300 mcg/100 ml and 40-50 mcg/100 ml in December, January and February, 400-900 mcg/100 ml and 50-100 mcg/100 ml in March, April and May, 600-1000 mcg/100ml and 70-140 mcg/100 ml in June, July and August respectively.
In conclusion, the lowest levels beta-carotene were obtained in winter months. Particularly the levels of beta-carotene were decreased significandtly in winter. Since beta-carotene has specific effects on immune systeme and reproductive functions of animals, beta-caroten rich feeds are suggested during winter feeding when Angora goats were kept in stall.
Keywords : Angora goats, retinol, beta-carotene and seasonal variation