Stress-induced changes in serum testosterone, estradiol-17 [beta] and progesterone in the turtle, Chelydra serpentina
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1989 |
Authors: |
I.Y. Mahmoud, L.J. Guillette Jr, M.E. McAsey, C. Cady |
Publication/Journal: |
Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Physiology |
Keywords: |
chelydra serpentina, common snapping turtles, estradiol, stress, testosterone |
ISBN: |
0300-9629 |
Abstract:
1. Adult male and female common snapping turtles, Chelydra serpentina were obtained during June, July and August and, starting immediately after capture, blood samples were drawn at timed intervals of 0, 6, 24, 48, 72 and 168 hr.
2. Captivity induced significant changes in serum concentrations of testosterone (T) in males and estradiol-17β (E2) and progesterone (P) in females.
3. Males exhibited an initial rise in plasma T which was followed 24–48 hr later by a decline to levels significantly below the initial values. The month of capture influenced both the degree and pattern of the response.
4. Females showed an initial rapid and significant rise in serum E2 and P concentrations which returned to initial levels within 7 days. The level and pattern of response varied between gravid and non-gravid females.