New horizons in the reproductive biology of Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) using the gonadal hormonal profile.

ABSTRACT: The reproductive uniqueness of pangolins has been documented through diverse biological reports with discernible data discrepancies in gestation, copulation, and pregnancy. These mechanistic reproductive differences have yet to be endocrinologically quantified, which could assist in optimizing natural breeding in zoos to recover endangered species. The present research characterizes the Chinese pangolin's annual seasonal reproductive pattern by measuring immunoreactive estrogens and progestagens in 34 captive females and testosterone in 29 captive males. Our results showed that Chinese pangolins are seasonal breeders, with most births witnessed during Sept-Dec, overlapping with the field records. Females exhibited spontaneous ovulation and post-partum ovulation. Pregnant females exhibited

SUBMITTER: Arora B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10547839 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature