Cryopreservation of turbot Scophthalmus maximus (L.) sperm:
fertilization and hatching rates
O. Chereguini, I. García de la Banda, M. Herrera, C.
Martinez, M. De la Hera-2003
Aquaculture
Research, 34(9):
739
Abstract:
The
present paper assesses the fertilization and hatching rates of an artificial
fertilization series (n=1153) using fresh and cryopreserved sperm
from 49 specimens of turbot Scophthalmus maximus (L.), carried out to
confirm the results of a previous study, with the ultimate aim of
transferring these cryo-preservation techniques to commercial hatcheries. No
significant differences were found between the fertilization rates of the
two groups (fresh and cryopreserved sperm) when their respective fertility
rates were >69.2%, which was the case in 75% of all fertilizations.
Likewise, no significant differences in hatching rates were found. In order
to use the cryopreserved sperm more efficiently, a key concern for
commercial use of this technique, we also experimented with a lower
sperm:diluent ratio (1:1) than used previously at our centre. We also
compared the traditional 0.5-mL straws with 2-mL cryotubes able to contain a
higher volume of sperm, finding no significant differences in the resulting
fertilization and hatching rates. In conclusion, the use of cryopreservation
for turbot sperm presents major advantages for broodstock management in
commercial hatcheries.
(Spanish Institute of Oceanography,
Culture Centre El Bocal, PB 240, Santander, Spain. E-mail: o.chereguini@st.ieo.es)