Shark Reproduction Flashcards
What influenced the evolutionary success of chondrichthyans?
wide range of reproductive strategies
What are the roles of estrogens in reproduction?
- stimulate vitellogenesis and the hepatic synthesis of yolk
- stimulate the development of different parts of the reproductive tract in females (oviducal gland)
- sperm storage
- secretion of maternal nutrients
- role in prepping uterus for parturition by stimulating relaxin production
- role in passage of eggs into uterus (enlarge isthmus)
What are the roles of androgens in female reproduction?
precursor to estrogens
-sperm storage
lecithotrophy
entire embryonic development is supported solely be yolk-sace
matrotrophy
at least part of embryo development is supported by additional maternal input of nutrients
oviparity
external embryonic development
viviparity
internal embryonic development
oviparous
lecithotrophic, lay eggs
yolk sac viviparous
lecithotrophic, embryos solely nourished by yolk sac but develop within mothers uterus
histotrophy
developing embryos receive additional nutrition in the form of uterine secretions
oophagy
embryos feed on unfertilized eggs produced by the ovary
adelphophagy
first hatch embryo eats other embryos, then unfertilized eggs
placental viviparity
placental connection links embryo to mother and provides nutrition
What hormone is produced by the hypothalamus?
gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)
What hormones are produced in the pituitary?
- gonadotropin hormones (GTH)
- follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone
What is the role of GnRH?
- stimulate production of GTH in pituitary
- direct influence on steroid hormone production in gonads
What is the role of GTHs?
- stimulate gametogenesis
- stimulate synthesis of steroid hormones in gonads
What is needed for GnRH to exert any functions?
The presence of a receptor at the target tissue
-binds to G-protein-coupled receptor GnRHR
What is the role of follicle stimulating hormone?
associated with early stages of gonadal growth
What is the role of luteinizing hormone?
regulates maturational events
What are the primary gonadal steroids involved in reproduction?
- 17beta-Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Testosterone
What is the source of E2 and T?
granulosa and theca cells of ovarian follicles