The key neuroendocrine regulators of the onset of puberty in the Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)
Authors
Berkovich, N.; Meiri-Ashkenazi, I.; Zlatnikov, V.; Corriero, A.; Bridges, C.R.; Mylonas, C.C.; Vassallo-Agius, R.; de-la-Gándara, F. (Fernando); Belmonte, A.; Elizur, A.; Gordin, H.; Rosenfeld, H.Date
2013Type
contributionToPeriodicalKeywords
tunaThunnus thynnus
Puberty
Fish reproduction
Abstract
Recently, significant progress on spawning induction in captive bluefin tuna (BFT, Thunnus thynnus), has been achieved providing the basis for the species' domestication. To further promote the development of a self- sustained BFT aquaculture, we investigated first sexual maturity in BFT reared from an immature stage in captivity. Accordingly, our major objectives were to evaluate: (i) maturational status of the brain-pituitary-gonadal (BPG) axis, and (ii) responsiveness of the BPG to exogenous hormones. Special emphasis was given to characterize the gonadotropins follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that act as central regulators of gonadal development and gamete maturation.
The growth parameters recorded for the captive BFT juveniles are consistent with the length-weight relationship established for wild Mediterranean BFT stocks. The histological analyses of the gonads indicate advanced sexual maturation in BFT males compared to females, yet it is not yet ...
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