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Monitoring of the Reproductive Cycle in Captive-Bred Female Boa constrictor: Preliminary Ultrasound Observations

Authors :
Mara Bertocchi
Enrico Bigliardi
Igor Pelizzone
Alessandro Vetere
Sabrina Manfredi
Diego Cattarossi
Matteo Rizzi
Francesco Di Ianni
Source :
Animals, Vol 11, Iss 11, p 3069 (2021)
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2021.

Abstract

The Boa constrictor is one of the most common reptiles bred in captivity. To achieve a successful breeding season, thorough knowledge of the females’ reproductive activity is necessary. In this regard, information on the Boa constrictor is still rather scarce. The aim of the present study was to monitor the ovarian activity and the embryonic development of boas by ultrasound. We performed brief scans on thirty non-anaesthetized snakes using a portable ultrasound system and a 7.5–10 MHz linear array transducer (Esaote MyLab™ Classic). Ultrasound features, dimensions, and echogenicity of the preovulatory and postovulatory follicles were determined. As gestation progresses, the postovulatory follicle size increases, and the embryonic silhouette becomes increasingly recognizable. During the second month after ovulation, by using color Doppler, early embryos’ heart activity could be evaluated. It is possible to highlight vascular connections between the mother and the membrane covering the embryonic structures. Ultrasound also allows one to identify follicular regression or slugs (nonfertilized eggs) early. The present study suggests that ultrasound could be an excellent noninvasive technique to evaluate the reproductive activity of Boa constrictor, allowing us to precisely identify the correct time for mating, monitor embryo development and viability, and allow the early diagnosis of follicular regression.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20762615
Volume :
11
Issue :
11
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Animals
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.6996ffc2db4d768d93d27917d9c463
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11113069