Asynchrony of the reproductive organs of the male vespertilionid bat, Scotophilus heathi: Role of gonadotrophins

Abstract

Changes in the LH-cells of the anterior pituitary in relation to the reproductive cycle in the male Scotophilus heathi (Hotsfield, 1831) are described. Immunocytochemical studies of the pituitary suggested two annual peaks of LH accumulation and release each associated with a period of active spermatogenesis and testosterone secretion. Further, in vitro study showed differences in testicular responsiveness to LH stimulation during November (a period of active spermatogenesis) and December (winter dormancy). Present study further showed that FSH is also capable of stimulating androgen secretion from the testis. Testicular FSH responsiveness varies from recrudescence to winter dormancy and this may be responsible for maintaining high circulating androstenedione production in S. heathi during this period.