The effect of long term exposure to copper on physiological condition and reproduction of sheep.

The influence of copper upon some physiological parameters and reproduction in ewes was studied. Four groups of animals were investigated: 1/ control ewes (untreated); 2) ewes receiving copper as a supplement over the recommended amount of copper in food (10, 25 or 50 mg Cu/ewe/day); 3/ control, superovulated ewes; and 4) ewes treated with 50 mg copper during one month and then superovulated. After 10 months of daily exposure to 10 mg of copper/ewe/day no signs of toxicity on physiological condition and reproduction were found. In ewes exposed to 25 or 50 mg of copper a decrease in blood parameters and increase in concentration of Cu in blood and liver were noticed. The wavy pattern of follicles was disturbed and disorders in fecundity, prolificacy and pregnancy occurred. Significant differences between the number of corpora lutea in superovulated control animals and experimental (Cu 50 mg) ewes were observed.