Effects of Extreme Light Cycle and Density on Melatonin, Appetite, and Energy Metabolism of the Soft-Shelled Turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis).

ABSTRACT: Constant darkness and constant light exposure often disturb the circadian rhythm in the behavior and energy metabolism of vertebrates. Melatonin is known as the hormonal mediator of photoperiodic information to the central nervous system and plays a key role in food intake and energy balance regulation in vertebrates. The popularly cultured soft-shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis has been reported to grow better under constant darkness; however, the underlying physiological mechanism by which darkness benefits turtle growth is not clear yet. We hypothesized that increased melatonin levels induced by darkness would increase appetite and energy metabolism and thus promote growth in P. sinensis. In addition, in order to elucidate the interaction of photoperiod and density, juven

SUBMITTER: Tang Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9312178 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature