Genetic studies have discovered multiple mutations and genetic risk factors that have helped to understand how ovulation rate is controlled in low ovulating species to regulate the numbers of offspring and maximise reproductive success. Most genes identified are from pathways with defined roles in regulation of the ovarian follicle development. Continued genetic studies can continue to improve detailed understanding of the regulation of ovulation rate and litter size with implications for health and animal production systems. Image by G. W. Montgomery.

This article belongs to the Collection The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.