The Sexual Cycle of the Impala Ram Aepyceros Melampus Lichtenstein

Abstract

Little is known of the cyclical nature of the reproductive process in seasonal breeding antelope in Africa. The mechanisms affecting testicular endocrine and exocrine function are of fundamental interest in the ecology of these animals and alteration of these could lead to the manipulation of breeding patterns in such animals. Moreover, the mating season (rut) takes place over a four-week period, from mid-May to mid-June, and it is of some interest to establish whether this is dependent on male sexual activity. A pilot investigation was therefore planned to study the reproductive cycle of the impala ram.