The present study aimed to verify the plasmatic progesterone (P4) concentrations in Santa Inês (SI), Suffolk (SU) and Romney Marsh (RM) ewes submitted to male effect receiving or not food supplementation during seasonal anestrous. Vasectomized rams were introduced to the group of ewes after 60 day isolation. Blood samples were collected before and after the male's introduction. Effects (P<0.01) of period, breed, period x breed interaction and period x breed x supplementation interaction on plasmatic P 4 concentrations were observed. The plasmatic P 4 concentrations of SI ewes increased (P<0.01) after the male introduction, indicating there was an increase in the reproductive activity in this group. Supplementation increased this effect. For SU and RM ewes the plasmatic P 4 concentrations did not alter (P>0.01) after the male introduction, with no supplementation. It was concluded the male effect was efficient in inducing the reproductive activity in SI ewes, but not in SU and RM ewes. The association of the effect of the male with supplementation increased this effect.
anestrous; ovine; reproductive activity
