Effects of implants on reproduction and growth of turbot broodstock
J.M.R.
Alvariño, P.G. Rebollar, M. Olmedo, B. Alvarez-Blázquez,
E. Ubilla, J.B. Peleteiro-2001
Aquaculture
International, 9(6):
477-487
Abstract:
The effect of 18 mg. melatonin (MLT) implants on the
reproductive performance of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.)
broodstock was determined in 20 females and 12 males. Implanted animals
showed supra-physiological plasma MLT concentrations during three months
after implantation, being at that time about one hundred times higher than
diurnal MLT concentrations. Direct effects of MLT implants were observed on
gonadal maturation of turbot females three months after implantation (P <
0.01), although the faster ovarian response to increasing photoperiod was
not consistent and no differences were detected at the final reproductive
performance. MLT implants had a positive effect on turbot male reproductive
features, since gonadal recrudescence started 45 days earlier (P < 0.05)
showing a trend towards higher spermatozoa concentration. Further research
is advisable to ascertain the MLT dose required for and time of implantation
in turbot broodstock.