Name
Exogenous hormones impact on ovarian dynamics in Rock Iguanas (Cyclura spp.)
Speakers
Description
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) development in reptiles is in its infancy. Investigation into the reproductive cycle in both males and female Rock Iguanas (Cyclura spp.) has established the baseline reproductive cycles. The next steps to develop ART in reptiles for Rock Iguanas requires understanding how exogenous hormone impact reproduction. The objective of this project was to assess the efficacy of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in both Grand Cayman blue iguana hybrids (Cyclura lewisi x nubila) (CLN) and rhinoceros iguana (Cyclura cornuta) (CC). A prospective experimental study was conducted from March–June; timing is based on the expected breeding period for both CLN and CC reproduction. Eighteen (0.9 CLN and 0.9 CC) adult females were randomly divided into three treatment groups group 1: control [saline], n = 3; group 2: 100 IU/animal [HCG], n = 3; group 3: 200 IU/animal [PMSG], n = 3). Saline, HCG, and PMSG were administered every 7 days for 8 weeks. All individuals had blood collected and reproductive ultrasound performed at the following time points day 0, 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days. Data collected to evaluate each animals reproductive cycle, included, animal weight, ovarian follicle count, ovarian follicular measurement (length, width, and volume), follicular appearance, plasma estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone. PMSG may be a promising hormone to be utilized for hormonally control of reptiles.
Session Type
Lecture (25 Min)