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Arimura S, Wong MKS, Inoue R, Kawano M, Shimoyama K, Fujimori C, Tokunaga K, Takagi W, Hyodo S. Functional characterization of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone receptors in cloudy catshark, Scyliorhinus torazame. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 354:114542. [PMID: 38685391 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) in cloudy catshark were cloned, and recombinant FSHR and LHR were expressed for characterization. Ventral lobe extract (VLE) from the pituitary contains homologous FSH and LH, and it stimulated the cAMP signaling of FSHR and LHR dose-dependently. Two transcript variants of LHR (LHR-L with exon 10 and LHR-S without) were identified, and LHR-S was the dominant form with higher basal cAMP activity without VLE stimulation. Among various developmental stages of follicles, FSHR expression was mainly associated with the pre-vitellogenic and early white follicles. When follicles were recruited into vitellogenesis, the expression of FSHR decreased while of LHR was upregulated reciprocally, suggesting that LHR may also be responsible for the control of vitellogenesis in chondrichthyans. The expression of LHR-L was upregulated among maturing follicles before ovulation, indicating LHR-L could have a specific role in receiving the LH surge signal for final maturation. Plasma LH-like activity was transiently increased prior to the progesterone (P4)-surge and testosterone-drop at the beginning of P4-phase, supporting a pituitary control of follicle-maturation via LH signaling in chondrichthyans. The expression of follicular LHR was downregulated during the P4-phase when LH-like activity was high, indicating that the LH-dependent downregulation of LHR is conserved in chondrichthyans as it is in other vertebrate lineages. (213 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Arimura
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Marty Kwok Shing Wong
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan; Center for Earth Surface System Dynamics, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Ryotaro Inoue
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Mai Kawano
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Koya Shimoyama
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Chika Fujimori
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Kita-10 Nishi-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0810, Japan.
| | - Kotaro Tokunaga
- Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium, Oarai, Ibaraki 311-1301, Japan.
| | - Wataru Takagi
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Susumu Hyodo
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Marine Biosciences, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan; Center for Earth Surface System Dynamics, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
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2
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Esposito G, Meletiadis A, Sciuto S, Prearo M, Gagliardi F, Corrias I, Pira A, Dondo A, Briguglio P, Ghittino C, Dedola D, Bozzetta E, Acutis PL, Pastorino P, Colussi S. First report of recurrent parthenogenesis as an adaptive reproductive strategy in the endangered common smooth-hound shark Mustelus mustelus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17171. [PMID: 39060341 PMCID: PMC11282070 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67804-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Parthenogenesis, or virgin birth, describes a mode of reproduction where an egg develops into an offspring without fertilization, and is observed across various vertebrate taxa, excluding mammals. Obligate parthenogenesis, found in around 100 vertebrate species and 1000 invertebrate species, is relatively rare. Conversely, facultative parthenogenesis, where females can reproduce both sexually and parthenogenetically, is observed in some vertebrates, including elasmobranchs. Notably, this phenomenon in elasmobranchs is mainly documented in captivity, allowing for detailed long-term observation. Specifically, this study reports the first case of facultative parthenogenesis in the common smooth-hound shark Mustelus mustelus, a species classified by IUCN as endangered. Here we show that the juvenile M. mustelus were born through parthenogenesis, exhibiting homozygosity at each genetic marker, consistent with terminal fusion automixis. Remarkably, this finding reveals that parthenogenesis can occur annually in these sharks, alternating between two females, and conclusively excludes long-term sperm storage as a cause. Consequently, this enhances our understanding of parthenogenesis in elasmobranchs and highlights the reproductive flexibility of M. mustelus. Overall, these results contribute to our broader understanding of reproductive strategies in elasmobranchs, which could inform conservation efforts for endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Esposito
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy.
| | - Arianna Meletiadis
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Sciuto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Marino Prearo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Flavio Gagliardi
- Panaque S.R.L. - Acquario Di Cala Gonone, Via La Favorita Snc, 08022, Cala Gonone, Dorgali, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corrias
- Panaque S.R.L. - Acquario Di Cala Gonone, Via La Favorita Snc, 08022, Cala Gonone, Dorgali, Italy
| | - Angela Pira
- Panaque S.R.L. - Acquario Di Cala Gonone, Via La Favorita Snc, 08022, Cala Gonone, Dorgali, Italy
| | - Alessandro Dondo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Briguglio
- Clinica Veterinaria Duemari, Via Cagliari 313, 09170, Oristano, Italy
| | - Claudio Ghittino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Daniele Dedola
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sardegna, Via Duca Degli Abruzzi 8, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Elena Bozzetta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Acutis
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy.
| | - Silvia Colussi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
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3
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Levine BA, Moresco A, Trout T, Schuett GW, Booth W. Female long-term sperm storage results in viable offspring in the Himalayan Mountain Pitviper, Ovophis monticola. Zoo Biol 2024; 43:183-187. [PMID: 38234126 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The ability of females to store sperm for extended periods in their reproductive tracts (termed long-term sperm storage, LTSS) has been reported across a diversity of vertebrate taxa. The evolutionary, ecological, and physiological significance of LTSS is wide-ranging and includes the ability to produce offspring when mates may be temporally scarce by way of decoupling copulation from ovulation, inbreeding avoidance, and the generation and maintenance of genetic diversity in progeny. Among vertebrate lineages, nonavian reptiles exhibit a remarkable capacity for LTSS, with the production of viable offspring reported after periods exceeding 6 years since prior contact with a potential mate. Given that female reptiles are able to store viable sperm for prolonged periods, it is important to disentangle LTSS from that of facultative parthenogenesis (FP), a reproductive trait which appears widespread among all reptile lineages. The implications of this distinction are particularly important in the context of the development and management of captive breeding programs. To accurately determine between the two reproductive strategies, genomic screening is highly recommended. Following a period of isolation for 13 months from a potential male mate, a female Himalayan Mountain Pitviper (Ovophis monticola) produced a clutch of three male offspring. Here, through genome-scale analyses of the female and her progeny, we document the first record of LTSS in this genus and exclude FP as the alternative hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenna A Levine
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, New Jersey, USA
- Chiricahua Desert Museum, Rodeo, New Mexico, USA
| | - Anneke Moresco
- Reproductive Health Surveillance Program, Morrison, Colorado, USA
- Denver Zoological Foundation, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Tim Trout
- Denver Zoological Foundation, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Gordon W Schuett
- Chiricahua Desert Museum, Rodeo, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Biology and Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Warren Booth
- Chiricahua Desert Museum, Rodeo, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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4
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Degueldre F, Aron S. Long-term sperm storage in eusocial Hymenoptera. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:567-583. [PMID: 36397639 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In internally fertilizing species, sperm transfer is not always immediately followed by egg fertilization, and female sperm storage (FSS) may occur. FSS is a phenomenon in which females store sperm in a specialized organ for periods lasting from a few hours to several years, depending on the species. Eusocial hymenopterans (ants, social bees, and social wasps) hold the record for FSS duration. In these species, mating takes place during a single nuptial flight that occurs early in adult life for both sexes; they never mate again. Males die quickly after copulation but survive posthumously as sperm stored in their mates' spermathecae. Reproductive females, also known as queens, have a much longer life expectancy, up to 20 years in some species. Here, we review what is currently known about the molecular adaptations underlying the remarkable FSS capacities in eusocial hymenopterans. Because sperm quality is crucial to the reproductive success of both sexes, we also discuss the mechanisms involved in sperm storage and preservation in the male seminal vesicles prior to ejaculation. Finally, we propose future research directions that should broaden our understanding of this unique biological phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félicien Degueldre
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, CP 160/12, Université Libre de Bruxelles, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serge Aron
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, CP 160/12, Université Libre de Bruxelles, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
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5
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Kashef NS, Stafford DM, Sogard SM, Garza JC, Field JC, Gilbert-Horvath EA. Multiple-brooding rockfishes (Sebastes spp.) can utilize stored sperm from individual sires to fertilize consecutive broods. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2023; 102:952-961. [PMID: 36752196 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Viviparous rockfishes (Sebastes spp., family Scorpaenidae) mate and store sperm in the ovaries for several months prior to fertilization, as oocytes develop for the parturition season. Although multiple paternity has been documented in single-brooding rockfishes, paternity in consecutive broods of multiple-brooding species has not been studied. Analyses of multilocus microsatellite genotypes in both residual larvae left in the ovary from a previous parturition and upcoming fertilized broods in the same ovary demonstrated evidence of the same sires in consecutive broods in chilipepper (Sebastes goodei) and speckled (Sebastes ovalis) rockfishes. One S. goodei mother showed evidence of multiple paternity from the same two sires in both consecutive broods. The ability to retain sperm, even after a parturition event, for use in subsequent broods, confers an advantage to ensure fertilization and allows for extension of the parturition season. This life-history strategy provides a bet-hedging advantage in the California Current system, an environmentally dynamic ecosystem where larval survivorship and subsequent recruitment to adult populations can vary temporally by orders of magnitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neosha S Kashef
- Fisheries Collaborative Program, Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Fisheries Ecology Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - David M Stafford
- Fisheries Collaborative Program, Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Fisheries Ecology Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Susan M Sogard
- Fisheries Ecology Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - John C Garza
- Fisheries Ecology Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Department of Ocean Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - John C Field
- Fisheries Collaborative Program, Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Fisheries Ecology Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Gilbert-Horvath
- Fisheries Collaborative Program, Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Fisheries Ecology Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Santa Cruz, California, USA
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6
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Marongiu MF, Porcu C, Pascale N, Bellodi A, Cau A, Mulas A, Pesci P, Porceddu R, Follesa MC. A Taxonomic Survey of Female Oviducal Glands in Chondrichthyes: A Comparative Overview of Microanatomy in the Two Reproductive Modes. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092653. [PMID: 34573616 PMCID: PMC8471067 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviducal glands (OGs) are distinct expanded regions of the anterior portion of the oviduct, commonly found in chondrichthyans, which play a key role in the production of the egg in-vestments and in the female sperm storage (FSS). The FSS phenomenon has implications for understanding the reproductive ecology and management of exploited populations, but little information is available on its taxonomic extent. For the first time, mature OGs from three lecithotrophic oviparous and four yolk-sac viviparous species, all considered at risk from the fishing impacts in the central western Mediterranean Sea, were examined using light microscopy. The OG microanatomy, whose morphology is generally conserved in all species, shows differences within the two reproductive modalities. Oviparous species show a more developed baffle zone in respect to viviparous ones because of the production of different egg envelopes produced. Among oviparous species, Raja polystigma and Chimaera monstrosa show presence of sperm, but not sperm storage as observed, instead, in Galeus melastomus and in all the viviparous sharks, which preserve sperm inside of specialized structures in the terminal zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Francesca Marongiu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.F.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Cristina Porcu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.F.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Noemi Pascale
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
| | - Andrea Bellodi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cau
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Antonello Mulas
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Paola Pesci
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Porceddu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
| | - Maria Cristina Follesa
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
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Brown banded bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium punctatum) shows high genetic diversity and differentiation in Malaysian waters. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14874. [PMID: 34290296 PMCID: PMC8295251 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94257-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The demersal brown banded bamboo shark Chiloscyllium punctatum is a major component of sharks landed in Malaysia. However, little is known about their population structure and the effect of high fishing pressure on these weak swimming sharks. Both mitochondrial DNA control region (1072 bp) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (1044 bp) were used to elucidate the genetic structure and connectivity of C. punctatum among five major areas within the Sundaland region. Our findings revealed (i) strong genetic structure with little present day mixing between the major areas, (ii) high intra-population genetic diversity with unique haplotypes, (iii) significant correlation between genetic differentiation and geographical distance coupled with detectable presence of fine scale geographical barriers (i.e. the South China Sea), (iv) historical directional gene flow from the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia towards the west coast and Borneo, and (v) no detectable genetic differentiation along the coastline of east Peninsular Malaysia. Genetic patterns inferred from the mitochondrial DNA loci were consistent with the strong coastal shelf association in this species, the presence of contemporary barriers shaped by benthic features, and limited current-driven egg dispersal. Fine scale population structure of C. punctatum highlights the need to improve genetic understanding for fishery management and conservation of other small-sized sharks.
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8
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Exceptional long-term sperm storage by a female vertebrate. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252049. [PMID: 34086677 PMCID: PMC8177532 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Females of many vertebrate species have the capacity to store sperm within their reproductive tracts for prolonged periods of time. Termed long-term sperm storage, this phenomenon has many important physiological, ecological, and evolutionary implications, particularly to the study of mating systems, including male reproductive success and post-copulatory sexual selection. Reptiles appear particularly predisposed to long-term sperm storage, with records in most major lineages, with a strong emphasis on turtles and squamates (lizards, snakes, but not the amphisbaenians). Because facultative parthenogenesis is a competing hypothesis to explain the production of offspring after prolonged separation from males, the identification of paternal alleles through genetic analysis is essential. However, few studies in snakes have undertaken this. Here, we report on a wild-collected female Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox, maintained in isolation from the time of capture in September 1999, that produced two healthy litters approximately one and six years post capture. Genetic analysis of the 2005 litter, identified paternal contribution in all offspring, thus rejecting facultative parthenogenesis. We conclude that the duration of long-term sperm storage was approximately 6 years (71 months), making this the longest period over which a female vertebrate has been shown to store sperm that resulted in the production of healthy offspring.
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9
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Smith KL, Feldheim K, Carlson JK, Wiley TR, Taylor SS. Female philopatry in smalltooth sawfish Pristis pectinata: conservation and management implications. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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10
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Flowers KI, Chapman DD, Kemp T, Wert D, Feldheim KA. Annual breeding in a captive smalltooth sawfish, Pristis pectinata. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2020; 97:1586-1589. [PMID: 32888190 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The critically endangered smalltooth sawfish Pristis pectinata reproduces biennially in central west Florida, U.S.A. Here we demonstrate that smalltooth sawfish are physiologically capable of reproducing annually in a captive environment. The smalltooth sawfish are held in an open system, with abiotic conditions that vary naturally with the surrounding environment in The Bahamas. This suggests wild smalltooth sawfish may also be capable of annual reproduction provided there are adequate prey resources, limited competition and mate availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn I Flowers
- Institute of Environment, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, North Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Demian D Chapman
- Institute of Environment, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, North Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Todd Kemp
- Marine and Aquarium Operations, Atlantis Paradise Island, Paradise Island, The Bahamas
| | - Dave Wert
- Marine and Aquarium Operations, Atlantis Paradise Island, Paradise Island, The Bahamas
| | - Kevin A Feldheim
- Pritzker Laboratory for Molecular Systematics and Evolution, Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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11
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Falahiehzadeh N, Salamat N. Histomorphological and endocrine assessment of female Arabian carpetshark, Chiloscyllium arabicum (Elasmobranchii: Hemiscylliidae) from the Persian Gulf during annual reproductive cycle. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2020; 97:938-952. [PMID: 32506537 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed at assessing the annual reproductive cycle of female Arabian carpetshark, Chiloscyllium arabicum from the Persian Gulf by a macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of the reproductive tract. The annual cycle of gonadal steroids [17β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and testosterone (T)] was also assessed in this shark. In total, 130 female C. arabicum were collected from the Bahrakan Creek (located northwest of the Persian Gulf) between January 2018 and March 2019. Females were oviparous with an external-type ovary and only one functional ovary. Five sexual maturity stages were recognized based on macroscopic and microscopic evaluation: Immature I (August-October), Immature II (November-January), Mature (February-March), Pregnant (April-May) and Spent (June-July). The structural changes in the oviducts, oviducal glands and uterus throughout the annual reproductive cycle were consistent with their roles in the egg movement, the egg capsule production and sperm storage. The plasma levels of the gonadal steroids were associated with morphological changes in the reproductive tract. E2 showed two detectable peaks during March (close to ovulation) and June (just before mating). P4 and T displayed a peak just before ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadieh Falahiehzadeh
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Khorramshahr University of Marine Science and Technology, Khorramshahr, Iran
| | - Negin Salamat
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Khorramshahr University of Marine Science and Technology, Khorramshahr, Iran
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12
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Wen C, Mai C, Wang B, Li J, Sun C, Yang N. Detrimental effects of excessive fatty acid secretion on female sperm storage in chickens. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:26. [PMID: 32266065 PMCID: PMC7114795 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-0432-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female sperm storage (FSS), the maintenance of sperm inside the female reproductive tract for an extended period of time, is pervasive among organisms with internal fertilization. Because FSS enables asynchronous mating and fertilization, it could be extremely important to reproduction. However, the physiological mechanisms underlying prolonged preservation and maintenance are poorly understood. Here, we used chicken, a typical oviparous animal, to determine the mechanisms ensuring sperm functionality in sperm storage tubules (SSTs). Results We performed an insemination experiment on over two thousand hens at two periods, and found that the FSS capabilities varied widely among individuals. Except for the differences in the SST density between the two groups with distinct FSS abilities, we quantitatively profiled small-molecule metabolites derived from SST cells, and identified 28 metabolites with differential expression. In particular, high levels of lipids, fatty acids and lipid peroxidation product were observed in hens with low FSS capability. Pathway analysis showed that these differential metabolites were significantly enriched in the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. Moreover, we detected the total antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation level of SSTs, and found that chickens with a lower FSS ability had a significantly higher content of lipid peroxidation end-product, which was 2.4-fold greater than chickens with a higher FSS capability, and no significant difference was found in the total antioxidant capacity between these two groups. Conclusions Our findings reveal that the long-term storage of sperm and the maintenance of their function in the female reproductive tract require an adequate microenvironment. The superabundance of fatty acids secreted by SST cells had detrimental effects on sperm storage in the female reproductive tract. Lipid peroxidation produces toxic biological substances that may cause irreversible damage to resident spermatozoa, resulting in short-term sperm retention and decreased fertility. Our findings provide new avenues for studying sperm storage and sustaining fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoliang Wen
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Chunning Mai
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Bin Wang
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Junying Li
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Congjiao Sun
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Ning Yang
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
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13
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Engel KM, Dzyuba V, Ninhaus-Silveira A, Veríssimo-Silveira R, Dannenberger D, Schiller J, Steinbach C, Dzyuba B. Sperm Lipid Composition in Early Diverged Fish Species: Internal vs. External Mode of Fertilization. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10020172. [PMID: 31979037 PMCID: PMC7072473 DOI: 10.3390/biom10020172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The lipid composition of sperm membranes is crucial for fertilization and differs among species. As the evolution of internal fertilization modes in fishes is not understood, a comparative study of the sperm lipid composition in freshwater representatives of externally and internally fertilizing fishes is needed for a better understanding of taxa-specific relationships between the lipid composition of the sperm membrane and the sperm physiology. The lipidomes of spermatozoa from stingray, a representative of cartilaginous fishes possessing internal fertilization, and sterlet, a representative of chondrostean fishes with external fertilization, have been studied by means of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), electrospray MS, gas chromatography-(GC) MS, and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). NMR experiments revealed higher cholesterol content and the presence of phosphatidylserine in stingray compared to sterlet sperm. Unknown MS signals could be assigned to different glycosphingolipids in sterlet (neutral glycosphingolipid Gal-Cer(d18:1/16:0)) and stingray (acidic glycosphingolipid sulpho-Gal-Cer(d18:1/16:0)). Free fatty acids in sterlet sperm indicate internal energy storage. GC-MS experiments indicated a significant amount of adrenic acid, but only a low amount of docosahexaenoic acid in stingray sperm. In a nutshell, this study provides novel data on sperm lipid composition for freshwater stingray and sterlet possessing different modes of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin M. Engel
- Institute for Medical Physics and Biophysics, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-341-97-15708
| | - Viktoriya Dzyuba
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Centre for Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší, 728/II, 38925 Vodňany, Czech Republic; (V.D.); (C.S.); (B.D.)
| | - Alexandre Ninhaus-Silveira
- Department of Biology and Zootechny, Ilha Solteira, Faculty of Engineering, São Paulo State University, Neotropical Ichthyology Laboratory—LINEO, Monção Street, 226, 15385-000, Ilha Solteira, SP, Brazil; (A.N.-S.); (R.V.-S.)
| | - Rosicleire Veríssimo-Silveira
- Department of Biology and Zootechny, Ilha Solteira, Faculty of Engineering, São Paulo State University, Neotropical Ichthyology Laboratory—LINEO, Monção Street, 226, 15385-000, Ilha Solteira, SP, Brazil; (A.N.-S.); (R.V.-S.)
| | - Dirk Dannenberger
- Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Institute of Muscle Biology and Growth, Lipid Metabolism and Muscular Adaptation Workgroup, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany;
| | - Jürgen Schiller
- Institute for Medical Physics and Biophysics, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany;
| | - Christoph Steinbach
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Centre for Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší, 728/II, 38925 Vodňany, Czech Republic; (V.D.); (C.S.); (B.D.)
| | - Borys Dzyuba
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Centre for Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší, 728/II, 38925 Vodňany, Czech Republic; (V.D.); (C.S.); (B.D.)
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14
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Rowley A, Locatello L, Kahrl A, Rego M, Boussard A, Garza-Gisholt E, Kempster RM, Collin SP, Giacomello E, Follesa MC, Porcu C, Evans JP, Hazin F, Garcia-Gonzalez F, Daly-Engel T, Mazzoldi C, Fitzpatrick JL. Sexual selection and the evolution of sperm morphology in sharks. J Evol Biol 2019; 32:1027-1035. [PMID: 31250483 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.13501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Post-copulatory sexual selection, and sperm competition in particular, is a powerful selective force shaping the evolution of sperm morphology. Although mounting evidence suggests that post-copulatory sexual selection influences the evolution of sperm morphology among species, recent evidence also suggests that sperm competition influences variation in sperm morphology at the intraspecific level. However, contradictory empirical results and limited taxonomic scope have led to difficulty in assessing the generality of sperm morphological responses to variation in the strength of sperm competition. Here, we use phylogenetically controlled analyses to explore the effects of sperm competition on sperm morphology and variance in sharks, a basal vertebrate group characterized by wide variation in rates of multiple mating by females, and consequently sperm competition risk. Our analyses reveal that shark species experiencing greater levels of sperm competition produce sperm with longer flagella and that sperm flagellum length is less variable in species under higher sperm competition risk. In contrast, neither the length of the sperm head and midpiece nor variation in sperm head and midpiece length was associated with sperm competition risk. Our findings demonstrate that selection influences both the inter- and intraspecific variation in sperm morphology and suggest that the flagellum is an important target of sexual selection in sharks. These findings provide important insight into patterns of selection on the ejaculate in a basal vertebrate lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Rowley
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lisa Locatello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Ariel Kahrl
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mariana Rego
- Laboratório de Histologia Animal, Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Annika Boussard
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eduardo Garza-Gisholt
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,The UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ryan M Kempster
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,The UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shaun P Collin
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,The UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eva Giacomello
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, IMAR- Institute of the Sea, OKEANOS Centre- University of the Azores, Horta, Portugal
| | - Maria C Follesa
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cristina Porcu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Jonathan P Evans
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fabio Hazin
- Laboratório de Histologia Animal, Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Francisco Garcia-Gonzalez
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,Estacion Biologica de Doñana-CSIC, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Toby Daly-Engel
- Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL, USA
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15
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Taking Advantage of the Genomics Revolution for Monitoring and Conservation of Chondrichthyan Populations. DIVERSITY-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/d11040049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chondrichthyes (sharks, rays, skates and chimaeras) are among the oldest extant predators and are vital to top-down regulation of oceanic ecosystems. They are an ecologically diverse group occupying a wide range of habitats and are thus, exploited by coastal, pelagic and deep-water fishing industries. Chondrichthyes are among the most data deficient vertebrate species groups making design and implementation of regulatory and conservation measures challenging. High-throughput sequencing technologies have significantly propelled ecological investigations and understanding of marine and terrestrial species’ populations, but there remains a paucity of NGS based research on chondrichthyan populations. We present a brief review of current methods to access genomic and metagenomic data from Chondrichthyes and discuss applications of these datasets to increase our understanding of chondrichthyan taxonomy, evolution, ecology and population structures. Last, we consider opportunities and challenges offered by genomic studies for conservation and management of chondrichthyan populations.
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16
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17
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Feldheim KA, Fields AT, Chapman DD, Scharer RM, Poulakis GR. Insights into reproduction and behavior of the smalltooth sawfish Pristis pectinata. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2017. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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18
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Duffy CAJ, Forrester ND, Gibson TK, Hathaway S. Occurrence of the whitetip reef shark Triaenodon obesus at the Kermadec Islands, Southwest Pacific Ocean. NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/03014223.2017.1340312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. A. J. Duffy
- Department of Conservation, Private Bag 68908, Auckland 1141, New Zealand
| | - N. D. Forrester
- Department of Conservation, PO Box 842, Whangarei 0140, New Zealand
| | - T. K. Gibson
- Department of Conservation, PO Box 842, Whangarei 0140, New Zealand
| | - S. Hathaway
- 19 Kotuku Place, Snells Beach 0920, New Zealand
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19
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Feldheim KA, Clews A, Henningsen A, Todorov L, McDermott C, Meyers M, Bradley J, Pulver A, Anderson E, Marshall A. Multiple births by a captive swellshark Cephaloscyllium ventriosum via facultative parthenogenesis. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2017; 90:1047-1053. [PMID: 27861877 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Using a novel set of 12 microsatellites, a captive, adult female swellshark Cephaloscyllium ventriosum that produced five pups via parthenogenesis is described; naturally occurring parthenogenesis has been observed in every vertebrate class with the exception of mammals. As demonstrated in this study, a captive environment is ideal for long-term monitoring of animals under controlled conditions, and easily allows the detection of particular facets of their biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Feldheim
- Field Museum of Natural History, Pritzker Laboratory for Molecular Systematics and Evolution, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, 60605, U.S.A
| | - A Clews
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - A Henningsen
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - L Todorov
- Field Museum of Natural History, Pritzker Laboratory for Molecular Systematics and Evolution, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, 60605, U.S.A
| | - C McDermott
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - M Meyers
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - J Bradley
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - A Pulver
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - E Anderson
- National Aquarium, Animal Science and Welfare, Pier 3, 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, U.S.A
| | - A Marshall
- America's Wildlife Museum & Aquarium, 500 West Sunshine Street, Springfield, MO, 65807, U.S.A
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20
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Switch from sexual to parthenogenetic reproduction in a zebra shark. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40537. [PMID: 28091617 PMCID: PMC5238396 DOI: 10.1038/srep40537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Parthenogenesis is a natural form of asexual reproduction in which embryos develop in the absence of fertilisation. Most commonly found in plants and invertebrate organisms, an increasing number of vertebrate species have recently been reported employing this reproductive strategy. Here we use DNA genotyping to report the first demonstration of an intra-individual switch from sexual to parthenogenetic reproduction in a shark species, the zebra shark Stegostoma fasciatum. A co-housed, sexually produced daughter zebra shark also commenced parthenogenetic reproduction at the onset of maturity without any prior mating. The demonstration of parthenogenesis in these two conspecific individuals with different sexual histories provides further support that elasmobranch fishes may flexibly adapt their reproductive strategy to environmental circumstances.
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21
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Androgen-related sperm storage in oviduct of Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle in vivo during annual cycle. Sci Rep 2016; 6:20456. [PMID: 26847578 PMCID: PMC4742787 DOI: 10.1038/srep20456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term sperm storage in the female genital tract is essential for the appropriate timing of reproductive events in animals with asynchronous copulation and ovulation. However, the mechanism underlying the prolonged storage of spermatozoa is largely unexplored in turtles. In the present study, the role of androgen in sperm storage was investigated in the oviduct of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. Morphological analysis revealed that spermatozoa were observed in the vagina, uterus and isthmus of the oviduct throughout the hibernation season. The increase of circulating testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels were consistent with the arrangement of spermatozoa that had their head embedded among the cilia of the oviduct mucosal epithelium. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that androgen receptor was distributed throughout the cytoplasm of gland cells and among the cilia of ciliated cells. Furthermore, marked variations in protein and mRNA levels of androgen receptor were validated through Western blot and qPCR analyses. The localization and the variation of androgen receptor demonstrated the crucial roles of androgens in sperm storage in the oviduct of P. sinensis. These results provide fundamental insights into the interaction of androgen and sperm storage and facilitate the elucidation of the mechanism of sperm storage in turtles.
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22
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Harmon TS, Kamerman TY, Corwin AL, Sellas AB. Consecutive parthenogenetic births in a spotted eagle ray Aetobatus narinari. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2016; 88:741-745. [PMID: 26563982 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.12819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Genetic evidence is given to support consecutive parthenogenesis in a spotted eagle ray Aetobatus narinari using nuclear microsatellite genotyping. To date, only a handful of births involving the parthenogenesis process in chondrichthyans have been verified using microsatellite markers and even fewer verified as recurring births. This appears to be the first documented case of this process occurring in a myliobatid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- T S Harmon
- Disney's Animals, Science, and Environment, Disney's Animal Kingdom, EPCOT's The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Walt Disney's Parks and Resorts, Bay Lake, FL, 32830, U.S.A
| | - T Y Kamerman
- Disney's Animals, Science, and Environment, Disney's Animal Kingdom, EPCOT's The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Walt Disney's Parks and Resorts, Bay Lake, FL, 32830, U.S.A
| | - A L Corwin
- Disney's Animals, Science, and Environment, Disney's Animal Kingdom, EPCOT's The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Walt Disney's Parks and Resorts, Bay Lake, FL, 32830, U.S.A
| | - A B Sellas
- California Academy of Sciences, Center for Comparative Genomics, 55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco, CA, 94118, U.S.A
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23
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Straube N, Lampert KP, Geiger MF, Weiß JD, Kirchhauser JX. First record of second-generation facultative parthenogenesis in a vertebrate species, the whitespotted bambooshark Chiloscyllium plagiosum. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2016; 88:668-675. [PMID: 26727105 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.12862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, two parthenogenetic events within a family of the whitespotted bambooshark Chiloscyllium plagiosum are reported. A captive female produced multiple parthenogens. Unexpectedly, a single specimen of a total of nine parthenogens displayed external claspers characterizing the male sex in chondrichthyans. Upon dissection, internal sexual organs of this specimen were malformed or absent; however, the presence of claspers in this study challenges the as yet assumed sex determination system in this shark species. Even more remarkable was that one of the female parthenogens reproduced asexually again producing viable offspring. As far as is known, this is the first genetically confirmed evidence for second-generation facultative parthenogenesis in vertebrates. These results support the evolutionary significance of parthenogenesis as an alternative to sexual reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Straube
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München, Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
- Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena, Institut für Spezielle Zoologie und Evolutionsbiologie, mit Phyletischem Museum, Erbertstr. 1, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - K P Lampert
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Universitaetsstrasse 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - M F Geiger
- Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig Bonn, Adenauerallee 160, 53113, Bonn, Germany
| | - J D Weiß
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München, Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
| | - J X Kirchhauser
- Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Karlsruhe, Erbprinzenstrasse 13, 76133, Karlsruhe, Germany
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24
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Giraldo-Perez P, Herrera P, Campbell A, Taylor ML, Skeats A, Aggio R, Wedell N, Price TAR. Winter is coming: hibernation reverses the outcome of sperm competition in a fly. J Evol Biol 2015; 29:371-9. [PMID: 26565889 PMCID: PMC4784169 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.12792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Sperm commonly compete within females to fertilize ova, but research has focused on short‐term sperm storage: sperm that are maintained in a female for only a few days or weeks before use. In nature, females of many species store sperm for months or years, often during periods of environmental stress, such as cold winters. Here we examine the outcome of sperm competition in the fruit fly Drosophila pseudoobscura, simulating the conditions in which females survive winter. We mated females to two males and then stored the female for up to 120 days at 4°C. We found that the outcome of sperm competition was consistent when sperm from two males was stored for 0, 1 or 30 days, with the last male to mate fathering most of the offspring. However, when females were stored in the cold for 120 days, the last male to mate fathered less than 5% of the offspring. Moreover, when sperm were stored long term the first male fathered almost all offspring even when he carried a meiotic driving sex chromosome that drastically reduces sperm competitive success under short‐term storage conditions. This suggests that long‐term sperm storage can radically alter the outcome of sperm competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Giraldo-Perez
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - P Herrera
- Division of Microbial Ecology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - A Campbell
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - M L Taylor
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall, UK
| | - A Skeats
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall, UK
| | - R Aggio
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - N Wedell
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall, UK
| | - T A R Price
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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25
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Miller DJ. Regulation of Sperm Function by Oviduct Fluid and the Epithelium: Insight into the Role of Glycans. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50 Suppl 2:31-9. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- DJ Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois; Urbana-Champaign IL USA
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