Abstract

This study evaluated the repeatability of the superovulatory response in Australian merino ewes during the reproductive season in one, three and four consecutive years. A modified protocol based on gradually reducing the dose of pFSH and associated support strategies was used. These strategies included spraying the horns during the procedure with saline and heparin solution, and the use of Flunixin Meglumine on days 17 to 19 each year. No significant differences were found in the total number of structures between the different groups (P>0.05). High repeatability was observed for the total number of embryos and for the number of transferable embryos in females that were superovulated for three and four consecutive years. The superovulatory treatment for three and four successive years used in this study do not affect the efficiency of the recovery of structures.