Identification of putative pheromones in bovine (Bos taurus) faeces in relation to estrus detection

Ten different volatile compounds were detected in bovine faeces using three chromatograms. The chemical profiles of estrus faeces were distinguished significantly from other phases by the presence of three specific substances, viz. acetic acid and propionic acid and 1-iodo undecane. The estrus specific synthetic compounds were rubbed onto the genital region of nonestrus animals (dummy cows), and the bulls were allowed to sniff the genital region and observed sexual behaviours. The statistical significance was higher (P < 0.001) in bulls exhibiting repeated flehmen and mounting behaviours towards the mixture of acetic acid, propionic acid and 1-iodo undecane. The bioassay revealed that the fatty acids viz., acetic acid; propionic acid and 1-iodo undecane produced in faeces during estrus appear to be estrus specific. The results suggest that these compounds may be used as estrus indicator in cow, probably involved in bovine biocommunication.