HORMONAL DYNAMICS AND REPRODUCTIVE EFFICIENCY IN RABBIT DOES FED CLOVE (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM)

Abstract

This study assessed the effects of dietary inclusion of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) bud powder on hormonal profiles and reproductive efficiency in rabbit does. Thirty-six does (2–3 months old; 600–650 g) were randomly allocated to four treatment groups—T1 (0 g/kg), T2 (5 g/kg), T3 (7.5 g/kg), and T4 (10 g/kg)—for 20 weeks in a completely randomized design. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Duncan’s test. Several hormonal parameters (FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone) were measured, alongside reproductive indices such as conception rate, gestation length, litter size, litter weight, and pre-weaning survival. The moderate inclusion of clove significantly increased FSH and progesterone levels, with peak values in the T2 (20.88 mIU/mL and 1.70 ng/mL) and T3 (18.23 mIU/mL FSH) groups, indicating enhanced follicular and luteal functions. LH rose with increasing clove levels, highest in T4 (15.87 mIU/mL), though these were associated with reduced FSH and progesterone, suggesting possible hormonal dysregulation at higher doses. Estradiol showed a non-significant increase. Maternal weights at mating and conception rose with clove inclusion, highest in T3 and T4 (1850.11 g and 1950.89 g), respectively. Gestation length was significantly reduced in T2 and T4 (~28.5 days). T2 recorded the highest litter size (4.44 kits), lowest pre-weaning mortality (2.22%), and highest kit survivability (93.29%). These findings suggest that moderate clove inclusion (5–7.5 g/kg) can improve reproductive traits and hormonal balance in rabbit does, promoting sustainable production. However, there is a suggestion that higher doses may disrupt endocrine regulation.