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Marliani G, Gelli D, Bellinello E, Costantin RS, Nicoloso S, Accorsi PA, Vaglio S. Effects of pharmacological castration on endocrinological and chemical profiles in captive red and fallow deer. THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2023.2190351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G. Marliani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
- Animal Behaviour & Wildlife Conservation Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - D. Gelli
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - E. Bellinello
- Azienda USL Bologna, Sanità Pubblica veterinaria, Vergato, Italy
| | | | | | - P. A. Accorsi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - S. Vaglio
- Animal Behaviour & Wildlife Conservation Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK
- University College–The Castle, Durham University, Durham, UK
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2
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Kelly CL, Schwarzkopf L, Gordon IJ, Pople A, Kelly DL, Hirsch BT. Dancing to a different tune: changing reproductive seasonality in an introduced chital deer population. Oecologia 2022; 200:285-294. [PMID: 35962285 PMCID: PMC9675656 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-022-05232-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Male and female reproductive behaviour is typically synchronised. In species such as those in the family Cervidae, reproductive timing is often cued by photoperiod, although in females, it can be dependent on body condition. When a species is introduced to a novel environment, the environment changes, or responses of the sexes to such cues differ, asynchronous reproductive behaviour between males and females may occur. We investigated the seasonality of reproductive behaviour in introduced chital deer in northern Queensland by examining male antler phase in relation to female conception rates. We then analysed the influence of different variables likely to affect the timing of male and female reproductive physiology. The lowest percentage of chital in hard antler in any 1 month in this study was 35% (Fig. 1), but the average value was closer to 50%, thus there was a seasonal peak in antler phase linked with photoperiod. Females conceived at any time of year, but were strongly influenced by the amount of rainfall 3 months prior to conception. This resulted in varying conception peaks year-to-year that often did not correspond to the male’s peak in hard antler. In this system, a proportion of males and females were physiologically and behaviourally ready to mate at any time of the year. We predict that differences in the timing of the peaks between the males and females will lead to increased reproductive skew (variation in reproductive success among individual males). This pattern may select for different mating strategies or physiological mechanisms to increase reproductive success.The average percentage of male chital deer in hard antler by month from 2014 to 2019 in north Queensland. Values above the bars indicate the total number of males that were sampled in each month and the error bars indicate the standard error. In the month with the lowest % males in hard antler in the entire study (November, 2017), 35% of males were in hard antler ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine L Kelly
- Division of Tropical Environments and Societies, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - Lin Schwarzkopf
- Division of Tropical Environments and Societies, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Iain J Gordon
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.,James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, UK.,CSIRO, Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct, Douglas Campus, Townsville, Australia.,Central Queensland University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Anthony Pople
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David L Kelly
- Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Ben T Hirsch
- Division of Tropical Environments and Societies, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.,Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama, Panama
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3
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Koitzsch KB, Anton CB, Koitzsch LO, Tjepkes TL, Schumann AC, Strasburg JL. A noninvasive and integrative approach for improving density and abundance estimates of moose. J Wildl Manage 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Colby B. Anton
- Yellowstone Center for Resources, National Park Service Yellowstone National Park WY 82190 USA
| | | | - Tessa L. Tjepkes
- Department of Biology University of Minnesota‐Duluth 207 Swenson Science Building, 1035 Kirby Drive Duluth MN 55812 USA
| | - Abby C. Schumann
- Department of Biology University of Minnesota‐Duluth 207 Swenson Science Building, 1035 Kirby Drive Duluth MN 55812 USA
| | - Jared L. Strasburg
- Department of Biology University of Minnesota‐Duluth 207 Swenson Science Building, 1035 Kirby Drive Duluth MN 55812 USA
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4
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Tanaka Y, Herédias-Ribas CM, Baldini MHM, Guevara JEH, Duarte JMB. Evaluation of potential reproductive seasonality in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) bucks. Theriogenology 2021; 171:104-112. [PMID: 34052778 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Photoperiod is the main cue that controls seasonal reproduction in deer from temperate regions, like secretion of testosterone by the testis, neck enlargement, and testis development. However, little is known about its effect on the reproduction of tropical deer species. This research aimed to assess the potential seasonality of the brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) by melatonin treatment. Reproductive parameters such as testicular volume, neck circumference, and semen quality were evaluated from day 0 to 90, and fecal androgen metabolites (FAM) from day -28 to 91. Melatonin treatment was administered from day 0 to 60. In total, seven individuals were used in the study. Four animals were allocated to the treated group (TG) and three to the control group (CG). The neck circumference and some seminal parameters did not show a significant difference between CG and TG and along the experimental period. High FAM levels were observed for the TG on days 7, 14, 21, 35, 84, and 91 (p < 0.05). The mean testicular volume was reduced from day 0 to 30 (p < 0.05) and from day 0 to 90 (p < 0.05), with no increase in the mean testicular volume from day 30 to 60 (p > 0.05). Sperm motility was the highest on day 60 compared with day 0 (p < 0.05). Although not statistically different, membrane integrity and major defects tended to be higher and lower, respectively, in the TG compared with the CG. For these parameters, the incremental change (%) per individual showed that males from the TG tended to have a higher percentage during the melatonin treatment, hence melatonin might affect these seminal characteristics. These findings suggest that exogenous melatonin might enhance FAM levels and sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Tanaka
- Veterinary Science Postgraduate Program, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Cláudia Maria Herédias-Ribas
- Veterinary Science Postgraduate Program, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Maria Helena Mazzoni Baldini
- Veterinary Science Postgraduate Program, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - José Eduard Hernández Guevara
- Animal Science Postgraduate Program, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - José Maurício Barbanti Duarte
- Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), School of Agricultural and Veterinary Studies (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Watter K, Thomas E, White N, Finch N, Murray PJ. Reproductive seasonality and rate of increase of wild sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in a new environment, Victoria, Australia. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 223:106630. [PMID: 33166829 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Sambar (Rusa unicolor) are the most numerous and rapidly expanding of Australia's six introduced deer species, however, there is little information about the reproductive biology of sambar deer in their natural habitat. To better predict and manage wild sambar populations in Australia it is important to understand their reproductive seasonality and rate of population growth. From results of the present study, there is reporting of field estimates of age at first breeding, reproductive lifespan, juvenile survival, adult bodyweights and fecundity to derive estimates of the current and intrinsic rates of increase for sambar in Victoria, Australia. Mean age of first reproduction was estimated to be 1.8 years, approximately 80 % of hinds calved between April and August, juvenile survival was estimated as 0.81 and age of last reproduction 12.75 years. Seasonality of reproduction is apparently compressed at 36° latitude compared to sambar at the equator indicating a response to photoperiod. Demographic data were used to estimate the current rate of growth of the Victorian population using the two stage Lotke-Euler equation and age-specific schedules of survival and fecundity in a lifetable. These estimates of r were 0.21 and 0.14, respectively, inferring annual rates of population increase of 24 % and 15 %. These data are in the context of a population which, even though there is a marked harvesting, is reportedly growing and dispersing northwards. Suggestions for how this information can inform management decisions directed at the conservation for sustainable use and/or population reduction in Australia are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Watter
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, 4343, Australia
| | - E Thomas
- Parks Victoria, Mt Beauty, Victoria, 3699, Australia
| | - N White
- The University of Queensland, QAAFI, Toowoomba, 4350, Australia
| | - N Finch
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, 4343, Australia
| | - P J Murray
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, 4343, Australia.
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Uccheddu S, Pintus E, Garde JJ, Fleba L, Muzzeddu M, Pudda F, Bogliolo L, Strina A, Nieddu S, Ledda S. Post-mortem recovery, in vitro maturation and fertilization of fallow deer (Dama dama, Linnaeus 1758) oocytes collected during reproductive and no reproductive season. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1294-1302. [PMID: 32654335 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Habitat degradation leads to small and fragmented populations, lower genetic variability and fertility overtime. Assisted reproductive techniques represent important tools to cope with the dramatic loss of biodiversity. Fallow deer (Dama dama), beyond its high commercial value and wide distribution, may represent the most suitable model to study endangered cervids. In this study, oocytes were recovered post-mortem from fallow deer during the breeding and no breeding seasons and were in vitro matured (IVM). The ability of cryopreserved thawed sperm samples recovered by electroejaculation from four adult males was tested by in vitro fertilization of IVM oocytes. The number of oocytes collected per ovary did significantly vary across seasons from 6.2 ± 0.92 during breeding season to 10.4 ± 1.26 during no breeding season (p = .006). Oocytes collected during the breeding season showed higher in vitro fertilization rate compared to the no breeding season (p = .045). However, no embryos reached the blastocyst stage. Semen samples obtained by electroejaculation were successfully cryopreserved, although the cryopreservation process negatively affected most kinetic parameters, mainly at 2 hr post-thawing. Moreover, the percentage of rapid spermatozoa significantly decreased between fresh samples and at 2 hr post-thawing, whereas the percentage of slow spermatozoa increased across the same period (p < .05). Our study provides the logistic steps for the application of assisted reproductive techniques in fallow deer and might be of great interest for genetic resource bank planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Uccheddu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Eliana Pintus
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | | | | | - Luisella Bogliolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Strina
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Stefano Nieddu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Ledda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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7
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Ungerfeld R, Villagrán M, Gil-Laureiro J, Sestelo A, Beracochea F, Fumagalli F, Bielli A. Adult and yearling pampas deer stags ( Ozotoceros bezoarticus) display mild reproductive seasonal patterns with maximum values in autumn. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200021. [PMID: 32714462 PMCID: PMC7375868 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The pampas deer is an endangered species, from which reproductive biology little is known. We aimed to describe and compare the reproductive seasonal patterns of adult and yearling pampas deer stags throughout the year, including morphological traits, testosterone concentration, sperm morphology and cryoresistance pattern changes. Six adult (AS) and five yearling (YS) stags were captured with anesthetic darts once in winter, spring, summer and autumn to study morphological variables, serum testosterone and semen. Adult males were heavier, their neck girth tended to be greater and their testosterone concentration was higher than in YS. Animals were heavier in summer and autumn. Neck girth and testosterone concentration were greater in autumn. Scrotal circumference, testicular volume and gonado-somatic index varied with seasons, decreasing from winter to spring, increasing in summer and remaining in greater values in autumn. Sperm quality had maximum values from summer to winter. However, the cryoresistance ratio of motility score was greater in spring. In conclusion, in the captivity conditions, pampas deer stags seems to present a light seasonal reproductive pattern, with maximum testis size, testosterone secretion and fresh semen quality in autumn. Nevertheless, sperm cryoresistance ratio seemed to remain stable along the year. Although YS were still growing, they achieved similar semen quality than AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Ungerfeld
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Matías Villagrán
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Jorge Gil-Laureiro
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Centro Universitario Regional Litoral Norte Salto, Universidad de la República, Paysandú, Uruguay
| | - Adrián Sestelo
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Reproductiva, Ecoparque, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Florencia Beracochea
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Fernando Fumagalli
- Área de Semiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Alejandro Bielli
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Pereira RJG, Crivelaro RM, Tanaka Y, Blank MH, Duarte JMB. Asynchronous breeding in red brocket deer (Mazama americana): seasonal changes in male reproductive characteristics, seminal parameters, androgen levels, and antler cycle. Mamm Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-020-00020-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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9
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Ventrella D, Elmi A, Bertocchi M, Aniballi C, Parmeggiani A, Govoni N, Bacci ML. Progesterone and Cortisol Levels in Blood and Hair of Wild Pregnant Red Deer ( Cervus Elaphus) Hinds. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E143. [PMID: 31963117 PMCID: PMC7022734 DOI: 10.3390/ani10010143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The red deer (Cervus elaphus L., 1758) is one of the largest deer species in the world. Females are seasonal polyestrous, with negative photoperiod: the increase of the night peak of melatonin determines the secretion of GnRH and, therefore, LH and FSH. To date there is little information regarding the hormonal control during pregnancy for this species; this could be due to the difficulty of sampling wild subjects, while farmed animals' hormonal concentrations may not reflect the physiology of the animal in a natural state. In this study we evaluated the concentration of cortisol and progesterone, extracted from blood and hair, on 10 wild and pregnant red deer females. Belonging to the population of the Bolognese Apennines (Italy), the hinds were sampled in the January-March 2018 period, according to the regional selective hunting plan. Plasma progesterone (P4) ranged from a minimum of 1.9 to a maximum of 7.48 ng/mL; while hair P4 concentrations varied from 41.68 to 153.57 pg/mg. The plasma and hair cortisol ranges are respectively 0.4-2.97 ng/mL and 0.03-0.55 pg/mg; the only significant correlation was found between hair concentration of P4 and the date of death. The results of this preliminary study represent a small step towards a better knowledge of this species' physiology during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Bertocchi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO), Italy; (D.V.); (A.E.); (C.A.); (A.P.); (N.G.); (M.L.B.)
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10
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Fuller TK, Silva AM, Montalvo VH, Sáenz-Bolaños C, Carrillo J E. Reproduction of white-tailed deer in a seasonally dry tropical forest of Costa Rica: a test of aseasonality. J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The reproductive season of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) has been hypothesized to be aseasonal south of about 14°–18°N latitude, where annual variation in day length is low. We tested this idea by using camera-trap data (1,336 photographed individuals identified by age and sex) collected during 2011–2017 in the dry tropical forest of Santa Rosa National Park, northwest Costa Rica, where wet and dry seasons are well-defined. We identified variation in monthly occurrence of spotted deer fawns, as well as the status of antler growth of male deer, specifically related to the very seasonal environment of the region. Year-round reproduction likely occurs, but the rainfall pattern in the area greatly influences the relative frequency of reproductive indicators, with most births occurring during the dry season, and a second peak occurring toward the latter part of the wet season. We speculate that food resources are the major influence on reproductive patterns, and that variation in types and timing of food resource availability likely account for the variation in reproductive patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd K Fuller
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Alexander M Silva
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Victor H Montalvo
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
- Instituto Internacional en Conservación y Manejo de Vida Silvestre, Universidad Nacional, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Carolina Sáenz-Bolaños
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
- Instituto Internacional en Conservación y Manejo de Vida Silvestre, Universidad Nacional, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Eduardo Carrillo J
- Instituto Internacional en Conservación y Manejo de Vida Silvestre, Universidad Nacional, Heredia, Costa Rica
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11
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Retention of solutes and particles in the gastrointestinal tract of a grazing cervid: Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus). EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-019-1288-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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12
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Pizzutto CS, Corrêa SHR, Teixeira RHF, Rosenfield DA, Jorge Neto PN, Berbare P, Rodriguez EG, Oliveira CA. Seasonal variations in serum concentrations of testosterone, testicular volume and neck circumference of fallow deer (Dama dama) kept ex situ in a tropical region. Zoo Biol 2019; 38:355-359. [PMID: 31056793 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The fallow deer (Dama dama) is a species of Cervidae commonly kept in captivity, either in commercial farms or in zoos. The reproductive seasonality of this species is well known in the northern hemisphere, where photoperiod is a decisive factor in androgenic activity and, consequently, in the development of secondary sexual characteristics among male adults. The maintenance of this species in tropical regions has been successful, but there are no studies that demonstrate the maintenance of reproductive seasonality under these climatic conditions, which was the objective of the present study. To do so, the present investigation involved 27 fallow deer (D. dama) specimens, of which 14 were adults and 13 prepubescent (<8 months) individuals, all assessed during and outside (December-February) the reproductive season (June-August). The serum concentrations of testosterone, testicular volume, and neck circumference were analyzed among all animals during both seasons. The reproductive season was marked by expressive hormonal concentrations, increasing neck circumference and testicular volume, differing significantly between adults and prepubescent individuals outside the season. Positive correlations were observed among all analyzed variables: mean testicular volume and neck circumference (r = 0.92, p < 0.0001), testicular volume and testosterone concentrations (r = 0.79, p < 0.0001) and between neck circumference and testosterone concentrations (r = 0.67, p < 0.0001). Given the results found, the conclusion is that even under tropical climate conditions the reproductive seasonality of the fallow deer is well defined and may be related to photoperiod.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane S Pizzutto
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra H R Corrêa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiaba, Brazil
| | | | - Derek A Rosenfield
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro Nacib Jorge Neto
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Berbare
- Department of Integrated Health Management - Prevent Senior, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erika G Rodriguez
- Department of Integrated Health Management - Prevent Senior, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudio A Oliveira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
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13
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Seasonal pattern of agonistic and marking behaviour of adult and young pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) males. Acta Ethol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-019-00310-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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14
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Gastal G, Aguiar F, Rodrigues A, Scimeca J, Apgar G, Banz W, Feugang J, Gastal E. Cryopreservation and in vitro culture of white-tailed deer ovarian tissue. Theriogenology 2018; 113:253-260. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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EARLY ONSET OF THE REPRODUCTIVE SEASON IN CAPTIVE WHITE-TAILED DEER (ODOCOILEUS VIRGINIANUS VERAECRUCIS) IN EASTERN MEXICO. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:1031-1038. [DOI: 10.1638/2016-0148.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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16
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Ovarian features in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) fawns and does. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177357. [PMID: 28542265 PMCID: PMC5444630 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The knowledge about ovarian reserve is essential to determine the reproductive potential and to improve the methods of fertility control for overpopulated species, such as white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of age on the female reproductive tract of white-tailed deer, focusing on ovarian features. Genital tracts from 8 prepubertal and 10 pubertal females were used to characterize the preantral follicle population and density, morphology, distribution of follicular classes; stromal cell density; and apoptosis in the ovary. In addition, uterus and ovary weights and dimensions were recorded; and the number and the size of antral follicles and corpus luteum in the ovary were quantified. Overall, fawns had a greater (P < 0.05) preantral follicle population, percentage of normal follicles, and preantral follicle density than does. The mean stromal cell density in ovaries of fawns and does differed among animals but not between age groups. The apoptotic signaling did not differ (P > 0.05) between the ovaries of fawns and does. However, apoptotic ovarian cells negatively (P < 0.001) affected the preantral follicle morphology and density, and conversely, a positive correlation was observed with stromal cell density. As expected, the uteri and ovaries were larger (P < 0.002) and heavier (P < 0.001) in does than in fawns. In conclusion, this study has shown, for the first time, the preantral follicle population and distribution of classes, rate of morphologically normal follicles, and density of preantral follicles and stromal cells in white- tailed deer. Therefore, the findings herein described lead to a better understanding of the white-tailed deer ovarian biology, facilitating the development of new methods of fertility control.
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Wojtusik J, Brown JL, Pukazhenthi BS. Non-invasive hormonal characterization of the ovarian cycle, pregnancy, and seasonal anestrus of the female addra gazelle (Nanger dama ruficollis). Theriogenology 2017; 95:96-104. [PMID: 28460687 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Non-invasive fecal hormone metabolite monitoring was used to characterize the estrous cycle, pregnancy, and seasonal anestrus of the critically endangered addra gazelle (Nanger dama ruficollis). With less than 250 animals remaining in the wild and ∼168 individuals managed in captivity, it is crucial to maintain sustainable populations. Progestogen and estrogen profiles were obtained from analysis of fecal samples collected approximately every other day, within varying intervals, over the course of 7 years (n = 8 adult females). Average estrous cycle length was 19.5 ± 0.4 days (range, 14-26 days), with a luteal phase length of 14.6 ± 1.2 days (range, 10-16 days), and an inter-luteal period of 5.2 ± 1.4 days (range, 2-7 days). Mean gestation length for six pregnancies was 200.7 ± 0.4 days (range, 200-202 days). Fecal progestogens increased at 12 weeks of gestation and remained elevated until parturition. Addra gazelle females exhibited a period of seasonal anestrus with consistently low progestogen concentrations and no cyclic activity from about September to March. Analysis of reproductive and climate records demonstrated a peak in U.S. births that coincided with maximal rainfall in the native habitat of the addra gazelle. Results show that estrous cycle, luteal phase, and inter-luteal phase lengths in addra are similar to those observed in other gazelle species, however, to our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate seasonal anestrus in the Nanger genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessye Wojtusik
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Center for Species Survival, 1500 Remount Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; George Mason University, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - Janine L Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Center for Species Survival, 1500 Remount Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Center for Species Survival, 1500 Remount Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, USA.
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Abstract
How many human embryos die between fertilisation and birth under natural conditions? It is widely accepted that natural human embryo mortality is high, particularly during the first weeks after fertilisation, with total prenatal losses of 70% and higher frequently claimed. However, the first external sign of pregnancy occurs two weeks after fertilisation with a missed menstrual period, and establishing the fate of embryos before this is challenging. Calculations are additionally hampered by a lack of data on the efficiency of fertilisation under natural conditions. Four distinct sources are used to justify quantitative claims regarding embryo loss: (i) a hypothesis published by Roberts & Lowe in TheLancet is widely cited but has no practical quantitative value; (ii) life table analyses give consistent assessments of clinical pregnancy loss, but cannot illuminate losses at earlier stages of development; (iii) studies that measure human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) reveal losses in the second week of development and beyond, but not before; and (iv) the classic studies of Hertig and Rock offer the only direct insight into the fate of human embryos from fertilisation under natural conditions. Re-examination of Hertig's data demonstrates that his estimates for fertilisation rate and early embryo loss are highly imprecise and casts doubt on the validity of his numerical analysis. A recent re-analysis of hCG study data concluded that approximately 40-60% of embryos may be lost between fertilisation and birth, although this will vary substantially between individual women. In conclusion, natural human embryo mortality is lower than often claimed and widely accepted. Estimates for total prenatal mortality of 70% or higher are exaggerated and not supported by the available data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin E. Jarvis
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
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Abstract
It is generally accepted that natural human embryo mortality during pregnancy is high - losses of 70% and higher from fertilisation to birth are frequently claimed. The first external sign of pregnancy occurs two weeks after fertilisation with a missed menstrual period. Establishing the fate of embryos before this is challenging, and hampered by a lack of data on the efficiency of fertilisation under natural conditions. Four distinct sources are cited to justify quantitative claims regarding embryo loss: (i) a hypothesis published by Roberts & Lowe in TheLancet is widely cited but has no quantitative value; (ii) life table analyses give consistent assessments of clinical pregnancy loss, but cannot illuminate losses at earlier stages of development; (iii) studies that measure human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) reveal losses in the second week of development and beyond, but not before; and (iv) the classic studies of Hertig and Rock offer the only direct insight into the fate of human embryos from fertilisation under natural conditions. Re-examination of Hertig's data demonstrates that his estimates for fertilisation rate and early embryo loss are highly imprecise and casts doubt on the validity of his numerical analysis. A recent re-analysis of hCG study data suggests that approximately 40-60% of embryos may be lost between fertilisation and birth, although this will vary substantially between individual women. In conclusion, it is clear that some published estimates of natural embryo mortality are exaggerated. Although available data do not provide a precise estimate, natural human embryo mortality is lower than is often claimed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin E. Jarvis
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
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Abstract
Natural human embryonic mortality is generally considered to be high. Values of
70% and higher are widely cited. However, it is difficult to determine
accurately owing to an absence of direct data quantifying embryo loss between
fertilisation and implantation. The best available data for quantifying
pregnancy loss come from three published prospective studies (Wilcox, Zinaman
and Wang) with daily cycle by cycle monitoring of human chorionic gonadotrophin
(hCG) in women attempting to conceive. Declining conception rates cycle by cycle
in these studies indicate that a proportion of the study participants were
sub-fertile. Hence, estimates of fecundability and pre-implantation embryo
mortality obtained from the whole study cohort will inevitably be biased. This
new re-analysis of aggregate data from these studies confirms the impression
that discrete fertile and sub-fertile sub-cohorts were present. The proportion
of sub-fertile women in the three studies was estimated as 28.1% (Wilcox), 22.8%
(Zinaman) and 6.0% (Wang). The probability of conceiving an hCG pregnancy
(indicating embryo implantation) was, respectively, 43.2%, 38.1% and 46.2% among
normally fertile women, and 7.6%, 2.5% and 4.7% among sub-fertile women.
Pre-implantation loss is impossible to calculate directly from available data
although plausible limits can be estimated. Based on this new analysis and a
model for evaluating reproductive success and failure it is proposed that a
plausible range for normal human embryo and fetal mortality from fertilisation
to birth is 40-60%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin E Jarvis
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
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Frauendorf M, Gethöffer F, Siebert U, Keuling O. The influence of environmental and physiological factors on the litter size of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in an agriculture dominated area in Germany. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 541:877-882. [PMID: 26437356 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.09.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The wild boar population has increased enormously in all of Europe over the last decades and caused problems like crop damage, transmission of diseases, and vehicle accidents. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the underlying causes of this increase in order to be able to manage populations effectively. The purpose of this study was to analyse how environmental (food and climate) and physiological factors (maternal weight and age) as well as hunting and population density influence the litter size of wild boar populations in Northern Germany. The mean litter size in the studied population for the whole period was 6.6 (range 1–12), which is one of the highest in all of Europe. Litter size was positively influenced by maternal body weight, higher mast yield of oak as well as higher temperature in combination with higher precipitation in summer. Only higher temperature or only higher precipitation in summer however had a negative effect on litter size production. Probably,weather and food conditions act via maternal bodyweight on the litter size variation in wild boar. Hunting as well a s population density did not affect the litter size variation in this study which might indicate that wild boar population did not reach carrying capacity yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Frauendorf
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Friederike Gethöffer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Oliver Keuling
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany.
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Kuba J, Błaszczyk B, Stankiewicz T, Skuratko A, Udała J. Analysis of Annual Changes in the Concentrations of Selected Macro- and Microelements, Thyroxine, and Testosterone in the Serum of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) Stags. Biol Trace Elem Res 2015; 168:356-61. [PMID: 25998797 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-015-0368-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to analyze seasonal changes in the concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and selenium as well as thyroxine and testosterone in adult red deer stags. The highest testosterone concentrations (mean 6.29±4.36 ng/ml) were observed from the end of August to November, confirming an increase in testicular secretory activity during the mating season. The changes in thyroxine concentration show circannual rhythms, most likely related to changes in the air temperature. The highest mean level of thyroxine was observed in spring (55.69±10.99 ng/ml). The concentration of selenium also reached the highest level during this season (0.107±0.027 μg/ml). In the case of the studied macroelements, the concentrations were stable from spring to summer but then decreased to the lowest mean values in autumn in both years of the experiment (Ca, 61.17±10.60; P, 47.08±9.59; Mg, 15.96±2.39 μg/ml). The dynamics of thyroxine secretion does not seem to affect directly the metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. In turn, sexual activity, manifested in the increase in secretion of testosterone, may affect changes in the concentration of calcium. Additionally, we cannot exclude a connection between changes in the concentrations of testosterone and selenium.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Kuba
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Dr. Judyma 6, 71-466, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - B Błaszczyk
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Dr. Judyma 6, 71-466, Szczecin, Poland
| | - T Stankiewicz
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Dr. Judyma 6, 71-466, Szczecin, Poland
| | - A Skuratko
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Dr. Judyma 6, 71-466, Szczecin, Poland
| | - J Udała
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Dr. Judyma 6, 71-466, Szczecin, Poland
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Sándor G, László R, Náhlik A. Determination of time of conception of fallow deer in a Hungarian free range habitat. FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2014. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.v63.i2.a10.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gyula Sándor
- University of West-Hungary, Faculty of Forestry, Institute of Wildlife Management and Vertebrate Zoology, Ady E. u. 5., H-9400 Sopron, Hungary
| | - Richárd László
- University of West-Hungary, Faculty of Forestry, Institute of Wildlife Management and Vertebrate Zoology, Ady E. u. 5., H-9400 Sopron, Hungary
| | - András Náhlik
- University of West-Hungary, Faculty of Forestry, Institute of Wildlife Management and Vertebrate Zoology, Ady E. u. 5., H-9400 Sopron, Hungary
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Physiological Difference of Estrus and Pregnant Ovary in Korean Water Deer. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.12750/jet.2014.29.1.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Potts JM, Beeton NJ, Bowman DMJS, Williamson GJ, Lefroy EC, Johnson CN. Predicting the future range and abundance of fallow deer in Tasmania, Australia. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2014. [DOI: 10.1071/wr13206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Context
Since the introduction of fallow deer (Dama dama) to Tasmania in the early 1830s, the management of the species has been conflicted; the species is partially protected as a recreational hunting resource, yet simultaneously recognised as an invasive species because of its environmental impact and the biosecurity risk that it poses. The range and abundance of fallow deer in Tasmania has evidently increased over the past three decades. In the 1970s, it was estimated that ~7000–8000 deer were distributed in three distinct subpopulations occupying a region of ~400 000 ha (generally centred around the original introduction sites). By the early 2000s, the estimated population size had more than tripled to ~20 000–30 000 deer occupying 2.1 million ha. No study has attempted to predict what further growth in this population is likely.
Aims
The purpose of our study was to provide a preliminary estimate of the future population range and abundance of fallow deer in Tasmania under different management scenarios.
Methods
We developed a spatially explicit, deterministic population model for fallow deer in Tasmania, based on estimates of demographic parameters linked to a species distribution model. Spatial variation in abundance was incorporated into the model by setting carrying capacity as a function of climate suitability.
Key results
On the basis of a conservative estimate of population growth for the species, and without active management beyond the current policy of hunting and crop protection permits, abundance of fallow deer is estimated to increase substantially in the next 10 years. Uncontrolled, the population could exceed 1 million animals by the middle of the 21st century. This potential increase is a function both of local increase in abundance and extension of range.
Conclusions
Our results identify areas at high risk of impact from fallow deer in the near future, including ecologically sensitive areas of Tasmania (e.g. the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area).
Implications
The research approach and results are presented as a contribution to debate and decisions about the management of fallow deer in Tasmania. In particular, they provide a considered basis for anticipating future impacts of deer in Tasmania and prioritising management to mitigate impact in ecologically sensitive areas.
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26
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Developmental ability after parthenogenetic activation of in vitro matured oocytes collected postmortem from deers. Small Rumin Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2013.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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English AK, Chauvenet ALM, Safi K, Pettorelli N. Reassessing the determinants of breeding synchrony in ungulates. PLoS One 2012; 7:e41444. [PMID: 22911793 PMCID: PMC3401108 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0041444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Predicting the consequences of climate change is a major challenge in ecology and wildlife management. While the impact of changes in climatic conditions on distribution ranges has been documented for many organisms, the consequences of changes in resource dynamics for species' overall performance have seldom been investigated. This study addresses this gap by identifying the factors shaping the reproductive synchrony of ungulates. In temporally-variable environments, reproductive phenology of individuals is a key determinant of fitness, with the timing of reproduction affecting their reproductive output and future performance. We used a satellite-based index of resource availability to explore how the level of seasonality and inter-annual variability in resource dynamics affect birth season length of ungulate populations. Contrary to what was previously thought, we found that both the degree of seasonal fluctuation in resource dynamics and inter-annual changes in resource availability influence the degree of birth synchrony within wild ungulate populations. Our results highlight how conclusions from previous interspecific analyses, which did not consider the existence of shared life-history among species, should be treated with caution. They also support the existence of a multi-faceted link between temporal variation in resource availability and breeding synchrony in terrestrial mammals, and increase our understanding of the mechanisms shaping reproductive synchrony in large herbivores, thus enhancing our ability to predict the potential impacts of climate change on biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie K. English
- Imperial College London, Division of Biology, Ascot, United Kingdom
- The Zoological Society of London, Institute of Zoology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aliénor L. M. Chauvenet
- Imperial College London, Division of Biology, Ascot, United Kingdom
- The Zoological Society of London, Institute of Zoology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kamran Safi
- Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Radolfzell, Germany
| | - Nathalie Pettorelli
- The Zoological Society of London, Institute of Zoology, London, United Kingdom
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