The influence of LHRH analog on oocyte development and spawning in female Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar

Abstract

A study of [D-Nal(2) 6]LHRH analog implantation in female Atlantic salmon was conducted to determine the capacity of sustained releasing hormone treatment to stimulate ovary growth and induce spawning. Judging the reproductive status of individual females at the beginning of hormone treatment was accomplished by ovary biopsy techniques allowing in vitro oocyte analysis. The gonadotropin and steroid hormone patterns associated with oocyte development and spawning in the Atlantic salmon were determined from blood sampling throughout the study period. We conclude that implanted LHRH analog stimulates development of the oocyte during the vitellogenic phase of reproduction; it is again demonstrated that LHRH analog treatment is an effective tool for synchronizing spawning in the Atlantic salmon.