Osteochondrosis dissecans causes torn and worn cartilage on multiple joint surfaces.
Oestrus (UK)
See: Estrus.
Offset
The temperature deviation that accounts for lag effects. A heater may be set to turn off 1ºF before the set point to prevent the set point temperature from being exceeded and the next stage being activated, possibly cooling the room.
Opportunity cost
The hypothetical cost or benefit of a forgone opportunity.
Osmotic pressure
A physical property of a solution based on the concentration of dissolved particles in that solution. Severe changes in osmotic pressure can cause sperm cells to swell and burst or dehydrate and die.
Outcrossing
Mating of individuals that are less closely related than the average of the breed. Outcrossing should reduce the possibility of loss of vigor due to inbreeding.
Oviduct
A highly specialized portion of the female reproductive tract that connects the ovary to the uterus. It is the site of fertilization in the pig.
Ovulation
The release of the egg from the follicle.
Oxytocin
A hormone that causes contraction of smooth muscles in the reproductive tract of both the male and female. Aids in sperm and egg transport.
