Continuance of circannual reproductive refractoriness in pinealectomized parthenogenetic whiptails(Cnemidophorus uniparens)

Seasonal Reproduction in Vertebrates: Melatonin Synthesis, Binding, and Functionality Using Tinbergen's Four Questions

One of the many functions of melatonin in vertebrates is seasonal reproductive timing. Longer nights in winter correspond to an extended duration of melatonin secretion. The purpose of this review is to discuss melatonin synthesis, receptor subtypes, and function in the context of seasonality across vertebrates. We conclude with Tinbergen's Four Questions to create a comparative framework for future melatonin research in the context of seasonal reproduction.

Effect of pinealectomy on annual testicular cycle of Indian chequered water snake, Natrix piscator

Pinealectomy for 60 days (noted every month of the year), in the tropical Indian chequered water snake. Natrix piscator, caused inhibition of testicular growth during late progressive and active phases and retarded the rate of regression during regressive phase; during sexually inactive phase the testes remain partially active. The weight of the accessory sex organs, vas deferens, and kidney (along with the renal sex segment activity) followed the same pattern as that of the testes. Thus, it may be concluded that the pineal gland of this ophidian participates in the regulation of seasonal testicular cycle, probably via the hypothalamo-hypophyseal axis, and hence the effects of pinealectomy are seasonal and a reproductive phase-dependent phenomenon.