Topics:
Animal Refresher, Animal Reproduction
Physiological State Indicated by Fern Pattern
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Question (English)
The fern pattern of cervical mucus reflects that the animal is in:
- Heat (Estrus) ✓ Correct
- Shock
- Milk fever
- Pregnancy
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Heat (Estrus)
The fern/arborization pattern in cervical mucus is a reliable indicator that the animal is in heat (estrus). During estrus, peak estrogen levels cause profound changes in cervical mucus composition — it becomes clear, watery, and abundant with a high NaCl content, which produces the distinctive fern-leaf crystallization pattern when dried and viewed under a microscope.
How to Perform the Ferning Test
- Collect a small sample of cervical mucus using a swab or gloved finger.
- Spread a thin film on a clean glass slide.
- Allow to air-dry completely (3–5 minutes).
- Examine under low-power microscope (10x).
Interpretation
- Positive (fern pattern present): Animal is in estrus — good time for AI
- Negative (no fern pattern): Animal is in diestrus or pregnant — not in heat
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Animal Reproduction. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
