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A histological study of gametogenesis in captive red snapper L utjanus campechanus
Author(s) -
BardonAlbaret Agnès,
BrownPeterson Nancy J,
Lemus Jason T,
Apeitos Angelos,
Saillant Eric A
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
aquaculture research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.646
H-Index - 89
eISSN - 1365-2109
pISSN - 1355-557X
DOI - 10.1111/are.12244
Subject(s) - vitellogenesis , gametogenesis , biology , spermatogenesis , sperm , reproduction , fishery , zoology , oogenesis , histology , seasonal breeder , cryopreservation , oocyte , ecology , endocrinology , embryo , botany , genetics
Abstract Gametogenesis was monitored histologically in wild‐caught red snapper ( L utjanus campechanus , Poey) maintained in captivity under simulated natural photothermal conditions. Gonads were collected every 2–3 weeks (average n = 14) for histology during the pre‐spawning season (February to May, temperature increasing from 16°C to 24°C). Primary vitellogenic oocytes were first observed in one female when temperature reached 20°C. Subsequent samples revealed females in pre‐vitellogenesis or at early stages of vitellogenesis, although one female had tertiary vitellogenic (Vtg3) oocytes. The first histological signs of spermatogenesis were observed when temperature reached 17°C. Spermatozoa were observed in testicular lobules of all males sampled on 14 May (24°C) but little or no sperm was released during manual stripping. Ten males and 10 females were left in tanks and monitored for spawning. No egg release was observed during the monitoring period that encompassed the natural spawning season of wild red snapper. Ovarian biopsies taken during the late spawning season (16 July) revealed that four of eight sampled females had Vtg3 oocytes. Males were manually stripped but released no sperm. These results indicate that captive red snapper can complete gametogenesis in photothermal controlled systems. Additional research is needed to develop procedures that will achieve reliable maturation and spawning.