Puberty is the process of aquiring reproductive capability. The onset depends on the ability of specific hypothalamic neurons to produce GnRH in sufficient quantities to both promote and support gametogenesis.
- In the female, hypothalamic GnRH neurons must develop the ability to respond to positive oestradiol feedback in order to produce sufficient GnRH to cause ovulation.
- Develepment of hypothalamic neurons is influenced by:
- Development of a threshold body size.
- Exposure to environmental and social cues.
- Genetics
Average Ages of Puberty in the Male and Female of Various Species
| Species
|
Alpaca
|
Bovine
|
Camel
|
Canine
|
Equine
|
Feline
|
Llama
|
Ovine
|
Porcine
|
| Male
|
2-3 Years
|
11 Months (7-18)
|
3-5 Years
|
9 Months (5-12)
|
14 Months (10-24)
|
9 Months (8-10)
|
2-3 Years
|
7 Months (6-9)
|
7 Months (5-8)
|
| Female
|
1 Year
|
11 Months (9-24)
|
3 Years
|
12 Months (6-24)
|
18 Months (12-19)
|
8 Months (4-12)
|
6-12 Months
|
7 Months (4-14)
|
6 Months (5-7)
|
