Vaginal cytology and transabdominal ultrasonography evaluation in lowland anoa (Bubalus depressicornis) during early pregnancy

Anoa Breeding Centre, Center for Implementation of Standards for Environmental and Forestry Instruments (BPSILHK) Manado. Adipura Street, Kima Atas, Manado 95259, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

^* Corresponding author: aldhiasafira@gmail.com

Abstract

Lowland anoa (Bubalus depressicornis) is an endemic mammal to Sulawesi Island, Indonesia, and is listed as an endangered species due to a stable population decline. Therefore, ex-situ conservation efforts, including captive breeding, play a significant role in anoa conservation efforts. Effective breeding programs depend on accurate reproductive management, particularly early pregnancy diagnosis. This study aims to describe the vaginal cytology and transabdominal ultrasonography evaluation in lowland anoa during early pregnancy. Female lowland anoa underwent estrous synchronization with the PGF2α hormone. Two administrations of 7.5mg luprostiol (Reprodin) were given intramuscularly at 14-day intervals, followed by natural mating two days later. Vaginal swabs were collected before and after synchronization, as well as after breeding, on days 25, 34, and 40. Samples were stained with diff-quik stains and observed microscopically. The vaginal epithelial profile remains dominated by parabasal and intermediate cells throughout the observation period. Transabdominal ultrasonography examination on day 41 post-mating confirmed the pregnancy diagnosis based on the presence of an embryo (head length 1.98 cm) in the gestational sac (diameter 10.22 cm). These findings suggest that vaginal cytology and transabdominal ultrasonography is a viable method for early pregnancy diagnosis in lowland anoa.