Back to Search Start Over

Ovarian Dynamics and Plasma Hormone Cyclicity in Two Cyclura Species.

Authors :
Perry, Sean M.
Mitchell, Mark A.
Source :
ExoticsCon in-Person Conference Proceedings; 2022, p352-352, 1p
Publication Year :
2022

Abstract

Iguanas are the most endangered family of reptiles, with 77% categorized as threatened or near threatened. Further, Cyclura is the most endangered reptile genus, with all 12 species considered threatened. Therefore, it is vital that we develop assisted reproductive technologies (ART) for Cyclura spp. to enhance their conservation efforts. Investigation into the fundamental physiology behind reproduction is necessary to develop ART. In Grand Cayman rock iguana hybrids (Cyclura lewisi nubila) and rhinoceros rock iguanas (Cyclura cornuta), male gonad and hormone cyclicity has been characterized previously; however, female reproduction has only been investigated at single time points for ecological studies. The goals of this study were to serially evaluate ovarian dynamics by evaluating follicle number, follicle structure, and follicular size in addition to measuring plasma estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone concentrations in captive Grand Cayman rock iguana hybrids and rhinoceros rock iguanas. A prospective longitudinal study was performed in eight female iguanas from each species during their reproductive seasons in southern Florida (January-August). The iguanas were manually restrained for blood collection from the ventral tail vein and ultrasounded using a (Butterfly VetIQ, Butterfly Inc.). Ovarian ultrasounds and blood were collected monthly. Plasma was used to measure estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone concentrations. A validated ELISA was used to measure hormones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
ExoticsCon in-Person Conference Proceedings
Publication Type :
Conference
Accession number :
159156730