High temperature attenuates testicular responses in tree sparrow (Passer montanus)

The majority of birds use environmental cues to time their reproduction. Photoperiod is the most dominant cue, but other environmental factors may play a critical role in successful reproduction. Some previous studies show the effect of temperature on the timing of nest building and reproduction. Here we tested if the temperature can modulate the reproductive responses of tree sparrows. Three experiments were performed on adult male birds. In experiment 1, birds (n = 5/group) were exposed to either high (30 ± 2 °C) or low temperature (20 ± 2 °C). Change in body mass, bill color, and testes volume was recorded every 30 days. In experiment 2, a similar temperature protocol was followed, but birds were euthanized after 30 days. In experiment 3, birds were first exposed to SD (8L:16D) for 30 days but either with high (30 ± 2 °C) or low temperature (20 ± 2 °C). After 30 days, birds were exposed to LD (14L:10D), but half of the high-temperature birds were moved to low temperature, and half of the low-temperature birds were moved to high temperature. After 30 days, all birds were euthanized. In experiment 2 and 3 immediately after euthanization birds, blood samples were collected, serum was used for hormone assay. mRNA levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone-β (Tshβ), type 2 deiodinase (Dio2), type 3 deiodinase (Dio3), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotropin inhibitory hormone (GnIH) were measured in hypothalamic tissue. Results from experiment 1 show that high temperature attenuates the testicular responses and accelerates the timing of regression. Experiment 2 shows that on day 30, testicular responses are similar, but reproductive genes express differentially in two groups. Experiment 3 shows that exposure to high temperatures during the photosensitive stage affects the testicular response at the poststimulatory state. Together, these findings suggest that high temperature modulates reproductive responses of tree sparrow.