Journal of Immunology and Immunopathology

Poor reproduction in buffalo is a major impediment to its efficient production. Most (30–80%) buffaloes do not exhibit overt oestrus (condition called sub-oestrus), especially during summer, and remain un-bred, leading to prolonged infertile periods and therefore high economic losses, or are bred naturally by bulls with unknown and often poor genetics. The genetic potential of buffalo has, therefore, been declining (Brar and Nanda, 2007). The oestrus cycle in buffaloes varies between 21 and 29 days depending on breed. The total duration of oestrus is usually 24 hours but varies between 12 and 72 hours. The most reliable sign of oestrus is frequent urination. The signs are much less pronounced than in cattle (Brar and Nanda, 2007). The present article envisages on various scientific approaches for oestrus synchronisation in the animal.