Skip to main content

Advertisement

SpringerLink
Log in

Sperm biology and control of reproduction in sturgeon: (I) testicular development, sperm maturation and seminal plasma characteristics

  • Reviews
  • Published:
Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Sturgeon (Chondrostei, Acipenseriformes) are threatened or endangered species due to overfishing and environmental degradation causing disruption of natural reproduction. Commercial sturgeon aquaculture and conservation program requires broodfish management as well as biogeographical and biological knowledge. Therefore, control of sturgeon reproduction in captivity can become as a valid tool in the field of sustainable development. The main objectives of the present review were to summarize, describe and synthesize available data about neuroendocrine control of testicular development, spermiation induction, seminal plasma characteristics and factors affecting sperm quality. In sturgeon, puberty usually occurs late in life and adult males do not spawn on an annual basis. Gonadal differentiation and spermatogonia proliferation occurs at 1–2 and 2–3 year-old, respectively. In spermatogenesis, environmental stimuli affect hypothalamus to release GnRH, which induce FSH release from pituitary stimulating testicular androgenesis, which is involved in spermatogonial proliferation and spermatogenesis. At spawning season, GnRH stimulates LH production from pituitary, regulating 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one production in testis, which control sperm maturation. In captivity, hormonal treatment is essential to induce spermiation. Chemical and biochemical compounds of the seminal plasma are important to protect viability, motility and fertilizing capacity of spermatozoa. Several kinds of acrosomal enzymes have been identified in sturgeon seminal plasma; higher concentrations reported in the frozen/thawed than fresh sperm suggesting their origination from spermatozoa. Moreover, there are numerous factors that influence on sperm quality including temperature, methods for spermiation induction, stripping frequency and stress.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • Akhundov MM, Fedorov KY (1991) Early gametogenesis and gonadogenesis in sturgeons, part 1: on criteria for comparative assessment of juvenile gonadal development in the example of the Russian sturgeon, Acipenser gueldenstaedtii. J Ichthyol 31:101–114

    Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH (2009) Sperm motility and behavior in models of teleostean and chondrostean fish. Ph.D. Dissertation, University of South Bohemia

  • Alavi SMH, Cosson J (2006) Sperm motility in fishes: (II) Effects of ions and osmotic pressure. Cell Biol Int 30:1–14

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Karami M, Abdoulhay H, Amiri BM (2004a) Chemical composition and osmolality of seminal fluid of Acipenser persicus; their physiological relationship with sperm motility. Aqua Res 35:1238–1243

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Karami M, Amiri BM, Akhoundzadeh MA (2004b) Spermatozoa motility in the Persian sturgeon, Acipenser persicus: Effects of pH, dilution rate, ions and osmolality. Reproduction 128:819–828

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Kazemi R (2006) Semen characteristics in Acipenser persicus in relation to sequential stripping. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):400–405

    Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH, Linhart O, Coward K, Rodina M (2008) Fish spermatology: implication for aquaculture management. In: Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Coward K, Rafiee G (eds) Fish spermatology. Alpha Science Ltd, Oxford, pp 397–460

    Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH, Rodina M, Viveiros ATM, Cosson J, Gela D, Boryshpolets S, Linhart O (2009) Effects of osmolality on sperm morphology, motility and flagellar wave parameters in Northern pike (Esox lucius L.). Theriogenology 72:32–43

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Alavi SMH, Hatef A, Mylonas CC, Gela D, Papadaki M, Rodina M, Podhorec P, Kaspar V, Psenicka M, Linhart O (2012a) Sperm characteristics and androgens in sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) after induction of spermiation by carp pituitary extract or GnRHa implants. Fish Physiol Biochem Under. doi: 10.1007/s11160-012-9268-4

  • Alavi SMH, Hatef A, Pšenička M, Kašpar V, Boryshpolets S, Dzyuba B, Cosson J, Bondarenko V, Rodina R, Gela D, Linhart O (2012b) Sperm biology and control of reproduction in sturgeon: (II) sperm morphology, acrosome reaction, motility and cryopreservation. Rev Fish Biol Fish. doi:10.1007/s11160-012-9268-4

  • Allyn ML, Sheehan RJ, Kohler CC (2001) The effects of capture and transportation stress on white bass semen osmolarity and their alleviation via sodium chloride. Trans Am Fish Soc 130:706–711

    Google Scholar 

  • Amiri BM, Maebayashi A, Adachi S, Yamauchi K (1996) Testicular development and serum sex steroid profiles during the annual sexual cycle of male sturgeon hybrid, the bester. J Fish Biol 48:1039–1050

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Amiri BM, Maebayashi A, Adachi S, Moberg GP, Doroshov SI, Yamauchi K (1999) In vitro steroidogenesis by testicular fragments and ovarian follicles in hybrid sturgeon, Bester. Fish Physiol Biochem 21:1–14

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Baghfalaki M, Shalouei F, Imanpour MR (2009) The relationships between some spermatological and biochemical parameters of Beluga (Huso huso L.) semen in the southeastern of Caspian Sea. Iran J Biol 22:312–320

    Google Scholar 

  • Barannikova IA (1999) Sex steroids in the serum of Caspian sturgeons and their specific cytosol binding in brain and gonads during the migratory cycle. J Appl Ichthyol 15:193–195

    Google Scholar 

  • Barannikova IA, Bayunova LV, Semenkova TB (2004) Serum levels of testosterone, 11-ketotestosterone and oestradiol-17β in three species of sturgeon during gonadal development and final maturation induced by hormonal treatment. J Fish Biol 64:1330–1338

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Barannikova IA, Bayunova LV, Semenkova TB (2006) Serum sex steroids and their specific cytosol binding in the pituitary and gonads of Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaetdii Brandt) during final maturation. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):331–333

    Google Scholar 

  • Barannikova IA, Bayunova LV, Semenkova TB, Trenkler IV (2008) Changes in the physiological state of hiemal form of the Russian Sturgeon Acipenser gueldenstaedtii in the Volga after holding it and hormonal impacts. J Ichthyol 48:402–407

    Google Scholar 

  • Baroiller JF, Guiguen Y, Fostier A (1999) Endocrine and environmental aspects of sex differentiation in fish. Cell Mol Life Sci 55:910–931

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Barton BA, Rahn AB, Feist G, Bolling H, Schreck CB (1998) Physiological stress responses of the fresh water chondrostean paddlefish (Polyodon spatula) to acute physical disturbances. Comp Biochem Physiol 120A:355–363

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Bayunova L, Barannikova I, Semenkova T (2002) Sturgeon stress reactions in aquaculture. J Appl Ichthyol 18:397–404

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Bayunova L, Canario AVM, Semenkova T, Dyubin V, Sverdlova O, Trenkler I, Barannikova IA (2006) Sex steroids and cortisol levels in the blood of stellate sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus Pallas) during final maturation induced by LH-RH-analogue. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):334–339

    Google Scholar 

  • Belanger JM, Son JH, Laugero KD, Moberg GP, Doroshov SI, Lankford SE, Cech JJ Jr (2001) Effects of short-term management stress and ACTH injections on plasma cortisol levels in cultured white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus. Aquaculture 203:165–176

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Bemis WE, Kynard B (1997) Sturgeon rivers: an introduction to Acipenseriform biogeography and life history. Environ Biol Fish 48:167–183

    Google Scholar 

  • Bemis WE, Findeis EK, Grande L (1997) An overview of Acipenseriformes. Environ Biol Fish 48:25–71

    Google Scholar 

  • Billard R (1992) Reproduction in rainbow trout: sex differentiation, dynamics of gametogenesis, biology and preservation of gametes. Aquaculture 100:263–298

    Google Scholar 

  • Billard R, Cosson MP (1992) Some problems related to the assessment of sperm motility in freshwater fish. J Exp Zool 261:122–131

    Google Scholar 

  • Billard R, Lecointre G (2001) Biology and conservation of sturgeon and paddlefish. Rev Fish Biol Fish 10:355–392

    Google Scholar 

  • Bobe J, Labbe C (2010) Egg and sperm quality in fish. Gen Comp Endocrinol 165:535–548

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Brandon CI, Srivastava PN, Heusner GL, Fayrer-Hosken RA (1997) Extraction and quantification of acrosin, b-Nacetylglucosaminidase and arylsulfatase A from equine ejaculated spermatozoa. J Exp Zool 279:301–308

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Bronzi P, Rosenthal H, Arlati G, Williot P (1999) A brief overview on the status and prospects of sturgeon farming in Western and Central Europe. J Appl Ichthyol 15:224–227

    Google Scholar 

  • Bronzi P, Rosenthal H, Gessner J (2011) Global sturgeon aquaculture production: an overview. J Appl Ichthyol 27:169–175

    Google Scholar 

  • Campbell PM, Pottinger TG, Sumpter JP (1992) Stress reduces the quality of gametes produced by rainbow trout. Biol Reprod 47:1140–1150

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Cao H, Zhou L, Zhang YZ, Wei QW, Chen XH, Gui JF (2009) Molecular characterization of Chinese sturgeon gonadotropins and cellular distribution in pituitaries of mature and immature individuals. Mol Cell Endocrinol 303:34–42

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Carmona E, Weerachatyanukul W, Soboloff T, Fluharty AL, White D, Promdee L, Ekker M, Berger T, Buhr M, Tanphaichitr N (2002) Arylsulfatase a is present on the pig sperm surface and is involved in sperm-zona pellucida binding. Develop Biol 247:182–196

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Carmona R, Domezain A, Garcia-Gallego M, Hernando JA, Rodriguez F, Ruiz-Rejon M (2009) Biology, conservation and sustainable development of sturgeons. Springer Science, Berlin

    Google Scholar 

  • Chapman FA (1989) Sexual maturation and reproductive parameters of wild and domestic stocks of white sturgeon. Acipenser transmontanus. Ph.D. Dissertation, University of California

  • Chapman FA, Van Eenennaam JP, Doroshov SI (1996) The reproductive condition of white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus, in San Francisco Bay, California. Fish Bull 94:628–634

    Google Scholar 

  • Chebanov M, Billard R (2001) The culture of sturgeons in Russia: production of juveniles for stocking and meat for human consumption. Aquat Liv Resour 14:375–381

    Google Scholar 

  • Cherr GN, Clark WN Jr (1985) Gamete interaction in the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus: a morphological and physiological review. Environ Biol Fish 14:11–22

    Google Scholar 

  • Chiba A, Honma Y (1994) Neuropeptide-Y immunoreactive structures in the telencephalon and diencephalon of the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus, with special regard to the hypothalamo-hypophyseal system. Arch Histol Cytol 57:77–86

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ciereszko A (2008) Chemical composition of seminal plasma and its physiological relationship with sperm motility, fertilizing capacity and cryopreservation success in fish. In: Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Coward K, Rafiee (eds) Fish spermatology. Alpha Science Ltd, Oxford, pp 215–240

  • Ciereszko A, Dabrowski K, Froschauer J, Wolfe TD (2006) Cryopreservation of semen from lake sturgeon. Trans Am Fish Soc 135:232–240

    Google Scholar 

  • Conte FS, Doroshov SI, Lutes PB, Strange EM (1988) Hatchery manual for the white sturgeon acipenser transmontanus with application to other North American Acipenseridae. University California, Oakland, CA

    Google Scholar 

  • Coward K, Bromage NR, Hibbitt O, Parrington J (2002) Gamete physiology, fertilization and egg activation in teleost fish. Rev Fish Biol Fish 12:33–58

    Google Scholar 

  • Craig JM, Papoulias DM, Thomas MV, Annis ML, Boase J (2009) Sex assignment of lake sturgeon (Acipenser fluvescens) based on plasma sex hormone and vitellogenin levels. J Appl Ichthyol 25(Suppl. 2):60–67

    Google Scholar 

  • Cuisset B, Pradelles P, Kime DE, Kühn ER, Babin P, Davail S, Le Menn F (1994) Enzyme immunoassay for 11-ketotestosterone using acetylcholinesterase as label: application to the measurement of 11-ketotestosterone in plasma of Siberian sturgeon. Comp Biochem Physiol 108:229–241

    Google Scholar 

  • Dabrowski K, Ciereszko A (2001) Ascorbic acid and reproduction in fish: endocrine regulation and gamete quality. Aqua Res 32:1–19

    Google Scholar 

  • Dettlaff TA, Ginzburg AS, Schmalhausen OI (1993) Sturgeon fishes: developmental biology and aquaculture. Springer, Berlin

    Google Scholar 

  • Devlin RH, Nagahama Y (2002) Sex determination and sex differentiation in fish: an overview of genetic, physiological, and environmental influences. Aquaculture 208:191–364

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Doroshov SI, Moberg GP, Van Eenennaam JP (1997) Observations on reproductive cycle of cultured white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus. Environ Biol Fish 48:265–278

    Google Scholar 

  • Fan X, Wei Q, Chang J, Rosenthal H, He J, Chen D, Shen L, Du H, Yang DG (2006) Observations on the formation and development of the primary germinal tissue of cultured Chinese sturgeon, Acipenser sinensis. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):358–360

    Google Scholar 

  • FAO (Fisheries and Aquaculture Information and Statistics Service) (2012) Aquaculture production: FISHSTAT Plus—Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

  • Faulkner IN, Moberg GP (1997) Effects of short-term management stress on the ability of GnRHa to induce gonadotropin secretion in male white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus. Aquaculture 159:159–168

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Fauvel C, Suquet M, Cosson J (2010) Evaluation of fish sperm quality. J Appl Ichthyol 26:636–643

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Flynn SR, Benfey TJ (2007) Sex differentiation and aspects of gametogenesis in shortnose sturgeon, Acipenser brevirostrum Lesueur. J Fish Biol 70:1027–1044

    Google Scholar 

  • Gallis JL, Fedrigo E, Jatteau P, Bonpunt E, Billard R (1991) Siberian sturgeon spermatozoa: effects of dilution, pH, osmotic pressure, sodium and potassium ions on motility. In: Williot P (ed) Acipenser. Cemagref, Bordeaux, pp 143–151

    Google Scholar 

  • Goncharov BF, Igumnova LV, Polupan IS, Savelieva EA (1991) Induced oocyte maturation, ovulation, and spermiation in sturgeons (Acipenseridae) using synthetic analogue of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. In: Williot P (ed) Acipenser. Cemagref, Bordeaux, pp 351–364

    Google Scholar 

  • Grand L, Bemis WE (1996) Interrelationships of Acipenseriformes, with comments on “Chonrostei”. In: Stiassny MIJ, Parenti LR, Johnson GD (eds) Interrelationships of fishes. Academic Press, New York, pp 85–115

    Google Scholar 

  • Grandi G, Chicca M (2008) Histological and ultrastructural investigation of early gonad development and sex differentiation in Adriatic sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii, Acipenseriformes, Chondrostei). J Morphol 269:1238–1262

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Gupta RS, Srivastava RK (1985) Lactic dehydrogenase activity in buffalo semen. Anim Reprod Sci 8:143–149

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Hermelink B, Wuertz S, Trubiroha A, Rennert B, Kloas W, Schulz C (2011) Influence of temperature on puberty and maturation of pikeperch, Sander lucioperca. Gen Comp Endocrinol 172:282–292

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Holcik J (1989) Freshwater fishes of Europe: general introduction to fishes and acipenseriformes (volume I, part II). Aula, Wiesbaden

    Google Scholar 

  • Horvath A, Wayman WR, Urbanyi B, Ware KM, Dean JC, Tiersch TR (2005) The relationship of cryoprotectants methanol and dimethyl sulfoxide and hyperosmotic extenders on sperm cryopreservation of two North-American sturgeon species. Aquaculture 247:243–251

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Hulak M, Rodina M, Alavi SMH, Linhart O (2008) Evaluation of semen and urine of pike (Esox lucius L.): ionic compositions and osmolality of the seminal plasma and sperm volume, density and motility. Cybium 32 (suppl.):189–190

    Google Scholar 

  • Hurvitz A, Degani G, Goldberg D, Din SY, Jackson K, Levavi-Sivan B (2005) Cloning of FSHβ, LHβ and glycoprotein α subunits from the Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii), β-subunit mRNA expression, gonad development, and steroid levels in immature fish. Gen Comp Endocrinol 140:61–73

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ingermann RL (2008) Energy metabolism and respiration in fish spermatozoa. In: Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Coward K, Rafiee G (eds) Fish spermatology. Alpha Science Ltd, Oxford, pp 241–266

    Google Scholar 

  • Ingermann RL, Holcomb M, Robinson ML, Cloud JG (2002) Carbon dioxide and pH affect sperm motility of white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus). J Exp Biol 205:2885–2890

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Jennings CA, Zigler SJ (2000) Ecology and biology of paddlefish in North America: historical perspectives, management approaches, and research priorities. Rev Fish Biol Fish 10:167–181

    Google Scholar 

  • Josupeit H (1994) World trade of caviar and sturgeon. Rome, FAO

    Google Scholar 

  • Kubokawa K, Watanabe T, Yoshioka M, Iwata M (1999) Effects of acute stress on plasma cortisol, sex steroid hormone and glucose levels in male and female sockeye salmon during the breeding season. Aquaculture 172:335–349

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Lahnsteiner F, Patzner RA, Weismann T (1994) The testicular main ducts and the spermatic ducts in some cyprinid fishes-II. Composition of the seminal fluid. J Fish Biol 44:459–467

    Google Scholar 

  • Lahnsteiner F, Patzner R, Weismann T (1993) The spermatic ducts of salmonid fishes (Salmonidae, Teleostei): morphology, histochemistry and composition of the secretion. J Fish Biol 42:79–93

    Google Scholar 

  • Lahnsteiner F, Mansour N, Berger B (2004) Seminal plasma proteins prolong the viability of rainbow trout (Oncorynchus mykiss) spermatozoa. Theriogenology 62:801–808

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Leprêtre E, Anglade I, Williot P, Vandesande F, Tramu G, Kah O (1993) Comparative distribution of mammalian GnRH (gonadotrophin-releasing hormone) and chicken GnRH-II in the brain of the immature siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baeri). J Comp Neurol 337:568–583

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Lescheid DW, Powell JFF, Fischer WH, Park M, Craig A, Bukovskaya O, Barannikova IA, Sherwood NM (1995) Mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) identified by primary structure in Russian sturgeon, Acipenser gueldenstaedti. Regul Pept 55:299–309

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Li P, Hulak M, Rodina M, Sulc M, Li ZH, Linhart O (2010a) Comparative protein profiles: potential molecular markers from spermatozoa of Acipenseriformes (Chondrostei, Pisces). Comp Biochem Physiol 5:302–307

    Google Scholar 

  • Li P, Rodina M, Hulak M, Gela D, Li ZH, Linhart O (2010b) Physico-biochemical parameters and protein profiles of sperm from beluga Huso huso. J Appl Ichthyol 26:753–755

    Google Scholar 

  • Li P, Rodina M, Hulak M, Gela D, Psenicka M, Li ZH, Linhart O (2011a) Physico-chemical properties and protein profiles of sperm from three freshwater chondrostean species: a comparative study among Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii), sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) and paddlefish (Polyodon spathula). J. J Appl Ichthyol 27:673–677

    Google Scholar 

  • Li P, Rodina M, Hulak M, Li ZH, Linhart O (2011b) Spermatozoa concentration, seminal plasma composition and their physiological relationship in the endangered stellate sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus) and Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii). Reprod Dom Anim 46:247–252

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Linhart O, Slechta V, Slavik A (1991) Fish sperm composition and biochemistry. Bull Inst Zool Acad Sin 16:285–311

    Google Scholar 

  • Linhart O, Mims SD, Shelton WL (1995) Motility of spermatozoa from Shovelnose sturgeon, Scaphirhynchus platorynchus, and Paddlefish, Polyodon spathula. J Fish Biol 47:902–909

    Google Scholar 

  • Linhart O, Mims SD, Gomelsky B, Hiott AE, Shelton WL, Cosson J, Rodina M, Gela D (2000) Spermiation of paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) stimulated with injection of LHRH analogue and carp pituitary extract. Aquat Liv Resour 13(6):1–6

    Google Scholar 

  • Linhart O, Mims SD, Gomelsky B, Hiott AE, Shelton WL, Cosson J, Rodina M, Gela D, Bastl J (2003a) Ionic composition and osmolality of paddlefish (Polyodon spathula, Acipenseriformes) seminal fluid. Aqua Int 11:357–368

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Linhart O, Rodina M, Bastl J, Cosson J (2003b) Urinary bladder, ionic composition of seminal fluid and urine with characterization of sperm motility in tench (Tinca tinca L.). J Appl Ichthyol 19:177–181

    Google Scholar 

  • Liu L, Wei Q, Guo F, Zhang J, Zhang T (2006) Cryopreservation of Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) sperm. J Appl Ichthyol 22:384–388

    Google Scholar 

  • Malekzadeh R, Webb MAH, Hallajian A, Kazemi R, Pahlavan Yali M (2006) Biochemical and morphometric parameters as indicators of sex and gonadal stages in maturing Persian sturgeon, Acipenser persicus. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):364–368

    Google Scholar 

  • Miki K (2007) Energy metabolism and sperm function. Soc Reprod Fert Suppl 65:309–325

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mims SD, Clark JA, Tidwell JH (1991) Evaluation of three organic fertilizers for paddlefish production in nursery ponds. Aquaculture 99:69–82

    Google Scholar 

  • Miura T, Miura CI (2003) Molecular control mechanisms of fish spermatogenesis. Fish Physiol Biochem 28:181–186

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Miura T, Yamauchi K, Takahashi H, Nagahama Y (1992) The role of hormones in the acquisition of sperm motility in salmonid fish. J Exp Zool 261:359–363

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Moberg GP, Watson JG, Doroshov S, Papkoff H, Pavlick RJ Jr (1995) Physiological evidence for two sturgeon gonadotropins in Acipenser transmontanus. Aquaculture 135:27–39

    Google Scholar 

  • Morisawa S, Morisawa M (1986) Acquisition of potential for sperm motility in rainbow trout and chum salmon. J Exp Biol 126:89–96

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Morisawa S, Morisawa M (1988) Induction of potential for sperm motility by bicarbonate and pH in rainbow trout and chum salmon. J Exp Biol 136:13–22

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mylonas CC, Zohar Y (2001) Use of GnRHa-delivery systems for the control of reproduction in fish. Rev Fish Biol Fish 10:463–491

    Google Scholar 

  • Mylonas CC, Fostier A, Zanuy S (2010) Broodstock management and hormonal manipulations of fish reproduction. Gen Comp Endocrinol 165:516–534

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Nagahama Y (1994) Endocrine regulation of gametogenesis in fish. Int J Develop Biol 38:217–229

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Nakamura M, Kobayashi T, Chang XT, Nagahama Y (1998) Gonadal sex differentiation in teleost fish. J Exp Zool 281:362–372

    Google Scholar 

  • Odet F, Duan C, Willis WD, Goulding EH, Kung A, Eddy EM, Goldberg E (2008) Expression of the gene for mouse lactate dehydrogenase C (Ldhc) is required for male fertility. Biol Reprod 79:26–32

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Pankhurst NW, Van Der Kraak G (1997) Effects of stress on reproduction and growth of fish. In: Iwama GK, Pickering AD, Sumpter JP, Schreck CB (eds) Fish, stress and health in aquaculture. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, pp 73–93

    Google Scholar 

  • Park C, Chapman FA (2005) An extender solution for the short-term storage of sturgeon semen. Nor Am J Aquacult 67:52–57

    Google Scholar 

  • Pavlick RJ Jr, Moberg GP (1997) Dopaminergic influence on gonadotropin secretion in white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus). Fish Physiol Biochem 16:35–43

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Petochi BT, Di Marco P, Donadelli V, Longobardi A, Corsalini I, Bertotto D, Finoia M, Marino G (2011) Sex and reproductive stage identification of sturgeon hybrids (Acipenser naccarii × Acipenser baerii) using different tools: ultrasounds, histology and sex steroids. J Appl Ichthyol 27:637–642

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Pikitch EK, Doukakis P, Lauck L, Chakrabarty P, Erickson DL (2005) Status, trends and management of sturgeon and paddlefish fisheries. Fish Fish 6:233–265

    Google Scholar 

  • Piñuela C, Northcutt RG (2007) Immunohistochemical organization of the forebrain in the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus. Brain Behav Evol 69:229–253

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Piros B, Glogowski J, Kolman R, Rzemieniecki A, Domagala J, Horvath A, Urbanyi B, Ciereszko A (2002) Biochemical characterization of Siberian sturgeon Acipenser baeri and starlet, Acipenser ruthenus, milt plasma and spermatozoa. Fish Physiol Biochem 26:289–295

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Porawski M, Wassermann GF, Achaval M (2004) Localization of acid phosphatase activity in the testis of two teleostean species (Oreochromis niloticus and Odonthestes perugiae). Braz J Biol 64:835–858

    Google Scholar 

  • Portz DE, Woodley CM, Cech JJ Jr (2006) Stress-associated impacts of short-term holding on fishes. Rev Fish Biol Fish 16:125–170

    Google Scholar 

  • Pourkazemi M (2006) Caspian Sea sturgeon conservation and fisheries: past, present and future. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):12–16

    Google Scholar 

  • Psenicka M, Alavi SMH, Rodina M, Cicova Z, Gela D, Cosson J, Nebesarova J, Linhart O (2008) Morphology, chemical contents and physiology of chondrostean fish sperm: A comparative study between Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) and sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus). J Appl Ichthyol 24:371–377

    Google Scholar 

  • Quérat B, Sellouk A, Salmon C (2000) Phylogenetic analysis of the vertebrate glycoprotein hormone family including new sequences of sturgeon (Acipenser baeri) beta subunits of the two gonadotropins and the thyroid-stimulating hormone. Biol Reprod 63:222–228

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Rochard E, Castelnaud G, Lepage M (1990) Sturgeons (Pisces Acipenseridae); threats and prospects. J Fish Biol 37:123–132

    Google Scholar 

  • Rurangwa E, Kime DE, Ollevier F, Nash JP (2004) Measurement of sperm motility and factors affecting sperm quality in cultured fish. Aquaculture 234:1–28

    Google Scholar 

  • Sandra GE, Norma MM (2010) Sexual determination and differentiation in teleost fish. Rev Fish Biol Fish 20:101–121

    Google Scholar 

  • Sarosiek B, Ciereszko A, Kolman R, Glogowski J (2004) Characteristics of arysulfatase in Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) semen. Comp Biochem Physiol 139B:517–579

    Google Scholar 

  • Sarosiek B, Wysocka J, Wysocki P, Kowalski R, Glogowski J (2006) Characteristics of acid phosphatase from Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) spermatozoa. J Appl Ichthyol 22(Suppl. 1):375–379

    Google Scholar 

  • Sarosiek B, Kowalski R, Glogowski J (2008) Isolation and preliminary characteristics of β-N-acetylglucosaminidase in the sperm of Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). J Appl Ichthyol 24:492–496

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Schreck CB, Contreras-Sanchez W, Fitzpatrick MS (2001) Effects of stress on fish reproduction, gamete quality, and progeny. Aquaculture 197:3–24

    Google Scholar 

  • Secor DH, Arefjev V, Nikolaev A, Sharov A (2000) Restoration of sturgeons: lessons from the Caspian Sea sturgeon ranching programme. Fish Fish 1:215–230

    Google Scholar 

  • Semenkova T, Barannikova I, Kime DE, McAllister BG, Bayunova L, Dyubin V, Kolmakov N (2002) Sex steroid profiles in female and male stellate sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus Pallas) during final maturation induced by hormonal treatment. J Appl Ichthyol 18:375–381

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Shalouei F, Imanpour MR, Shaabani A, Baghfalaki M (2008) Correlation between seminal plasma indices and spermatozoa motility in Ship sturgeon (Acipenser nudiventris Lovetzky 1828). J Agricult Sci Natu Resour 15:22–27 (In Persian)

    Google Scholar 

  • Sherwood NM, Doroshov S, Lance V (1991) Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in bony fish that are phylogenetically ancient: reedfish (Clanmoichthys calabaricus), Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus), and Alligator Gar (Lepidosteus spatula). Ge. Gen Comp Endocrinol 84:44–57

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Toth GP, Ciereszko A, Christ SA, Dabrowski K (1997) Objective analysis of sperm motility in the Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens): activation and inhibition conditions. Aquaculture 154:337–348

    Google Scholar 

  • Tsepkin YA, Sokolov I (1971) The maximum size and age of some sturgeons. J Ichthyol 11:444–446

    Google Scholar 

  • Tsvetkova LI, Cosson J, Linhart O, Billard R (1996) Motility and fertilizing capacity of fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa in sturgeons Acipenser baeri and A. ruthenus. J Appl Ichthyol 12:107–112

    Google Scholar 

  • Ueda H, Kambegawa A, Nagahama Y (1985) Involvement of gonadotropin and steroid hormones in spermiation in the amago salmon, Oncorhynchus rhodurus and goldfish, Carassius auratus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 59:24–30

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Urner F, Sakkas D (2003) Protein phosphorylation in mammalian spermatozoa. Reproduction 125:17–26

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Van Eenennaam JP, Doroshov SI (1998) Effects of age and body size on gonadal development of Atlantic sturgeon. J Fish Biol 53:624–637

    Google Scholar 

  • Van Eenennaam JP, Doroshov SI, Moberg GP, Watson JG, Moore DS, Linares J (1996) Reproductive conditions of the Atlantic sturgeon, Acipenser oxyrinchus, in the Hudson River. Estuaries 19:769–777

    Google Scholar 

  • Van Eenennaam JP, Linares J, Doroshov SI (2006) Reproductive conditions of the Klamath River Green sturgeon. Trans Am Fish Soc 135:151–163

    Google Scholar 

  • Van Eenennaam JP, Linares-Casenave J, Muguet JB, Doroshov SI (2008) Induced spawning, artificial fertilization and egg induction techniques for Green sturgeon. Nor Am J Aquacult 70:434–445

    Google Scholar 

  • Vasil’eva ED (2009) Morphological and morphometric characters in sturgeon taxonomy and phylogeny. In: Carmona R, Domezain A, Garcia-Gallego M, Hernando JA, Rodriguez F, Ruiz-Rejon M (eds) Biology, conservation and sustainable development of sturgeons. Springer Science, Berlin, pp 51–61

    Google Scholar 

  • Vizziano D, Le Gac F, Fostier A (1996) Effect of 17ß-estradiol, testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone on 17,20ß-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one production in the rainbow trout testis. Gen Comp Endocrinol 104:179–188

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Vizziano D, Fostier A, Loir M, Le Gac F (2008) Testis development, its hormonal regulation and spermiation induction in teleost fish. In: Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Coward K, Rafiee G (eds) Fish spermatology. Alpha Science Ltd., Oxford, pp 103–140

    Google Scholar 

  • Watanabe A, Onitake K (2008) The regulation of spermatogenesis in fish. In: Alavi SMH, Cosson J, Coward K, Rafiee G (eds) Fish spermatology. Alpha Science Ltd., Oxford, pp 141–160

    Google Scholar 

  • Wayman WR (2003) From gamete collection to database development: development of a model cryopreserved germplasm respiratory for aquatic species with emphasis on Sturgeon. Ph.D. Dissertation, Louisiana State University

  • Webb MAH, Doroshov SI (2011) Importance of environmental endocrinology in fisheries management and aquaculture of sturgeons. Gen Comp Endocrinol 170:313–321

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Webb MAH, Erickson DL (2007) Reproductive structure of the adult green sturgeon, Acipenser medirostris, population in the Rogue River, Oregon. Environ Biol Fish 79:305–314

    Google Scholar 

  • Webb MAH, Feist GW, Foster EP, Schreck CB, Fitzpatrick MS (2002) Potential classification of sex and stage of gonadal maturity of wild white sturgeon using blood plasma indicators. Trans Am Fish Soc 131:132–142

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Wei Q, Li P, Psenicka M, Alavi SMH, Shen L, Liu J, Peknicova J, Linhart O (2007) Ultrastructure and morphology of sperm in Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis Gray 1835) using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Theriogenology 67:1269–1278

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Williot P, Kopeika EF, Goncharov BF (2000) Influence of testis state, temperature and delay in semen collection on spermatozoa motility in the cultured Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baeri Brandt). Aquaculture 189:53–61

    Google Scholar 

  • Williot P, Sabeau L, Gessner J, Arlati G, Bronzi P, Gulyas T, Berni P (2001) Sturgeon farming in Western Europe: recent developments and perspectives. Aquat Liv Resour 14:367–374

    Google Scholar 

  • Williot P, Gulyas T, Ceapa C (2002) An analogue of GnRH is effective for induction of ovulation and spermiation in farmed Siberian sturgeon, Acipenser baerii Brandt. Aqua Res 33:735–737

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Wrobel KH, Jouma S (2004) Morphology, development and comparative anatomical evaluation of the testicular excretory pathway in Acipenser. Ann Anat 186:99–113

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Wrobel KH, Hees I, Geseres S, Schimmed M (2002) The genus Acipenser as a model for a model for vertebrate urogenital development: ultrastructure of nephrostomial tubule formation and of initial gonadogenesis. Ann Anat 184:443–454

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Yaron Z (1995) Endocrine control of gametogenesis and spawning induction in the carp. Aquaculture 129:49–73

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Yaron Z, Sivan B (2006) Reproduction. In: Evans DH, Claibourne JB (eds) The physiology of fishes. CRC Press, Boca Raton, pp 343–386

    Google Scholar 

  • Zhang T, Zhuang P, Zhang LZ, Zhang Z, Zhou YT, Lan ZQ, Wang ZK (2003) Analysis on the trace element in seminal plasma of cultured Amur sturgeon and sterlet sturgeon. J Fish Sci China 10:350–351

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Zheng YP (2007) Studies on Physio-ecological characteristic of sperm of Chinese Sturgeon, Acipenser sinenis gray. Master thesis. Huazhong Agricultural University

  • Zohar Y, Mylonas CC (2001) Endocrine manipulations of spawning in cultured fish: from hormones to genes. Aquaculture 197:99–136

    CAS  Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to Martin Kahanec, Ivana Samkova and Marie Pecena for their excellent technical helps during long-term standing research on sturgeon at Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia. We also thank our colleagues from Czech Republic (Prof. M. Flajshans and Prof. J. Peknicova), USA (Prof. S. Mims and Prof. W.L. Shelton), Poland (Prof. A. Ciereszko), Greece (Prof. C.C. Mylonas) and France (Prof. J. Cosson and Prof. R. Billard) for their contributions into different research plans. We warmly thank Prof. S.I. Doroshov (University of California, Davis, USA) for providing histological photographs presented in Fig. 3. The present work was funded by GACR 523/09/1793, P502/11/0090 and P503/12/1834, ME10015, QH82119, GAJU 047/2010/Z and 046/2010/Z, LC06073, CENAKVA CZ.1.05/2.1.00/01.0024, and IAA 608030801.

Conflict of interest

None.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic

    Sayyed Mohammad Hadi Alavi, Marek Rodina, David Gela & Otomar Linhart

Authors
  1. Sayyed Mohammad Hadi Alavi
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Marek Rodina
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. David Gela
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  4. Otomar Linhart
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding authors

Correspondence to Sayyed Mohammad Hadi Alavi or Otomar Linhart.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Alavi, S.M.H., Rodina, M., Gela, D. et al. Sperm biology and control of reproduction in sturgeon: (I) testicular development, sperm maturation and seminal plasma characteristics. Rev Fish Biol Fisheries 22, 695–717 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11160-012-9268-4

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11160-012-9268-4

Keywords

Search

Navigation