Prolificacy in small ruminants

Abstract

Prolificacy is the ability to reproduce abundantly. Litter size, which is highly dependent on ovulation rate, has a high economic value and it is a fundamental reproductive trait, especially in small ruminants. Considering the low heritability of prolificacy, it is possible to improve the progress of the prolificacy trait selection using DNA markers and molecular biology techniques. In this article, an overview of the various factors affecting prolificacy in small ruminants has been emphasized.