On breeding, interspecies hybridization, and preservation of the gene pools of furbearing carnivores that have an obligate embryonic diapause

Abstract

Our cytogenetic studies on obligate embryonic diapause (delayed implantation) in the mink, sable, and western spotted skunk have shown that the active process of growth and differentiation of trophoblast takes place during diapause. This indicates that the stage of delayed implantation in its native appearance is important for the successful course of pregnancy. This finding should be taken into consideration in developing programs for breeding, interspecies hybridization, and preservation of the gene pools of furbearing carnivores that have an obligate embryonic diapause.