Poultry Judging Practice Test

Which hormone is responsible for the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles?

1. Estrogen

2. Follicle Stimulating Hormone

3. Luteinizing Hormone

4. Progesterone

The correct answer is: Follicle Stimulating Hormone

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of ovarian follicles. It is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries, which are essential for regulating the reproductive cycle. As FSH promotes the maturation of these follicles, it also leads to the production of estrogen by the developing follicles, which in turn further supports the reproductive process. Estrogen, while significant in regulating the reproductive system and influencing many processes during the menstrual cycle, is not responsible for the initial growth of the follicles. Instead, it is the result of the action of FSH on the ovarian follicles that contributes to higher estrogen levels. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is important for triggering ovulation and the subsequent formation of the corpus luteum, but it does not play the primary role in the early growth and maturation of the follicles. Progesterone is primarily involved in preparing the endometrium for a possible implantation of an embryo and maintaining pregnancy, rather than in the maturation of the ovarian follicles. In summary, FSH is the key hormone that initiates the growth of ovarian follicles, making it the correct answer in this context.