Vaginal swab cytology aplication to determine the estrus cycle of lowland anoa (bubalus depressicornis, smith, 1927) in captivity

Anoa is an endemic species of Indonesia that is listed as endangered in the IUCN Redlist list and also included in the Appendix I CITES. Anoa's reproduction have been constraint due to their natural behaviour. This animal is a solitary animal, monogamous, wild and aggressive, Incorrect mating time can lead the into a fight between the male and female. Information about the estrus cycle is very important in determining the optimal mating time for anoa. The study aim is to determine the estrus cycle of anoa based on behaviour and change in the vaginal epithelial cells. Behavioural data were observed by focal animal sampling technique to 3 female anoas in Anoa Breeding Center Manado during January-August 2017 at 07.00-17.00 CIT. Vaginal swabs cytology was done during July-August 2017 in the morning and afternoon by using terilized cotton swab and Giemsa stain. The vaginal swabs cytology techniques with Giemsa staining can be used to determine the changes in epithelial cells and confirm the estrus phase of anoa. Based on vaginal cytology the length of the estrus cycle of each individual anoa at the Anoa Breeding Center is different. At Manis the lengt of estrus cycle ranges 23 days, Rita 15 days, Denok 21 days and Ana is unidentified.