Seasonal influence on sexual hormones and semen plasma parameters of Arabian sand gazelles (Gazalla subgutrosa marica) in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The plasma levels of testosterone (T), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were evaluated in Arabian sand gazelles Gazalla subgutrosa marica to reveal their relation with the sexual desire and testicular efficiency. The levels of those hormones fluctuated over the year; the FSH peak (2.212 ml/mlu) was in October (the beginning of reproductive season). LH level peaked in November (0.73 ml/mlu), while the testosterone level started to increase from July and reached its peak during September and October (340.38 and 419. 5 ng/dl, respectively) and decreased rapidly after November. The levels of some semen inorganic constituents were also measured, the average of sodium, potassium and chloride concentrations were 652.75 ± 124 ± 2.3 and 7.2 ± 0.15 ml mol/L, respectively. Fructose level averaged 141 ± 3.5 mg /dl. The use of the reproductive biotechnologies, which aim to preserve the endangered mammals including Gazelles, is restricted by several factors and depends upon the understanding of the relevant reproductive physiology. In conclusion, sexual hormones were strongly influenced by season. The results from this study suggest more investigation on the reproductive physiological research in order to detect the suitable period for semen collection of Arabian Sand Gazelles (G. subgutturosa marica) in Saudi Arabia. 

Keywords: Testosterone, follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), fructose and Gazalla subgutrosa marica

African Journal of Biotechnology, Vol 13(52) 4647-4652