Artificially Extending Photoperiod in Pre-partum Mares using Mobile Light Masks Influences Gestation Length, Foal Birth Weight and Foal Hair Coat

In seasonally breeding animals, photoperiod perception is crucial for timing of important physiological events. In the horse, long day photoperiod influences the onset of ovulation and cyclicity, shedding of the heavier winter coat and the timing of parturition. Regulation of the seasonal reactivation cue occurs via reduction in melatonin secretion from the pineal. Recent research indicates that short wavelength light within the blue spectrum is particularly effective at suppressing melatonin secretion in the horse [1].

Source: Journal of Equine Veterinary Science - June 23, 2018 Category: Veterinary Research Authors: B.A. Murphy, M.B. Nolan, C.M. Walsh, N. Duff, C. McCrarren Source Type: research