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1: Science. 1976 Jan 9;191(4222):98-100.Click here to read Links

Phytoestrogens: adverse effects on reproduction in California quail.

Phytoestrogens, largely formononetin and genistein, are produced in the leaves of stunted desert annuals in a dry year. When ingested by California quail, these compounds apparently inhibit reproduction and prevent the production of young that will not have adequate food. In a wet year, forbs grow vigorously and phytoestrogenic substances are largely absent. Quail then breed prolifically and the abundant seed crop carries the enlarged population through the winter.

PMID: 1246602 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]