Diurnal patterns of faecal testosterone metabolites in spotted buffaloes from Tana Toraja assessed with a noninvasive endocrine method

Understanding diurnal variation in testosterone secretion is essential for managing reproduction and conserving unique livestock germplasm. This preliminary study investigated fluctuations in faecal testosterone metabolites in male spotted buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) from Tana Toraja, Indonesia. Testosterone concentrations exhibited individual variation and temporal fluctuation. Higher levels were generally observed in individually housed buffaloes with optimal feed access, whereas group housing appeared to suppress testosterone levels, likely due to social stress. A potential association between coat colour patterns and hormone levels was also noted. At a broader level, faecal testosterone monitoring provides a practical, non-invasive approach to assessing reproductive physiology in high-value livestock. Taken together, these findings provide baseline data for selective breeding and conservation programs targeting Indonesia’s spotted buffalo germplasm.