Seasonal changes in hepatosomatic index, gonadosomatic index and plasma estradiol‐17β level in captively reared female rabbit fish ( Siganus guttatus )

Abstract

The seasonal changes in hepatosomatic index (HSI), gonadosomatic index (GSI) and plasma estradiol‐17β (E₂) level in female rabbit fish (Siganus guttatus) were investigated. The relationship between plasma E₂ levels with these indices and ovarian growth was also evaluated. Each month, at least 10 female broodfish were sacrificed to collect liver, ovary and blood for HSI, GSI and plasma E₂, respectively. GSI and HSI were calculated as percentage (%) of relative weight of gonad and liver to total body weight, respectively. Plasma E₂ level was measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method (ELISA). Ovaries were cut and stained for histological observation. The results included seasonal changes in plasma E₂ levels, stages of ovarian development, GSI and HSI. The highest level of E₂ was observed in June (1,445.62 pg/ml) and during vitellogenesis (2,305 pg/ml). GSI and HSI values significant fluctuated monthly. The highest HSI and GSI were 1.72% in May and 3.58% in June, respectively. The pattern of plasma E₂ levels showed a relationship with GSI and different stages of ovarian development. HSI was associated with ovarian stages. During vitellogenesis, the highest value (1.9%) of HSI was observed. Histological sections showed that rabbit fish is a multiple spawner. These results contribute to further understanding of female rabbit fish reproductive biology in captivity. Important reproductive parameters such as HSI, GSI and E₂ can be used to indicate maturation status of this fish species.