Determination of probable reproduction season of ındividually tagged siberian and diamond sturgeon broodstock, whicha are newly rised, via steroid hormones, haematological changes and ultrasound imagery

Abstract

In this study, it is aimed to determine the gonadal development and gender of the Siberian (Acipenser baerii) and diamond (A. gueldenstaedtii) sturgeon species by using ultrasonography and blood parameters in aquaculture conditions. A total of 15 Siberian and 15 diamond sturgeon individuals from broodstock candidates at the ages of 4(+) years were selected and tagged. We used ultrasound examination and hematocrit, erythrocyte, leukocyte, hemoglobin values in blood, followed by calcium, sodium ions and steroids (estradiol (E-2), testosterone (T) and progesterone (P)) in blood plasma in monthly periods between December 2015 and June 2016. Siberian sturgeon individuals were detected as 7 female and 8 male; and 7 females and 7 males were determined in diamond sturgeons, and 1 individual had no gender in ultrasound imaging. Successful gender detection was performed by ultrasound imaging. Depending on the results of hemogram testing, probable gamete production period can be determined according to the changes of hematocrit, erythrocyte, leukocyte, hemoglobin and sex steroids. in this results, hemogram values increased between May and June in diamond sturgeon while peaking in January-February for Siberian sturgeon. However, there was no obvious change in calcium and sodium ions. At the end of the study, it was concluded that blood analysis can be used effectively, when the main gamete maturation season of the newly produced broodstock population is decided. on the other hand, the ultrasonography is the easiest way to determine bloods' gender and maturation level.