Induction of spermatogenesis by exogenous gonadotrophins during nonbreeding season in Calotes versicolor

Treatment of exogenous gonadotrophins(PMSG, hCG and PMSG+hCG) to male C. versicolor during nonbreeding phase resulted in increased weight of testis and its diameter. The seminiferous tubular diameter was also increased and tubules were filled with spermatogenic elements like spermatogonia, primary and secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. The results suggest that mammalian nonpituitary gonadotrophins(PMSG and hCG) also posses the potency to stimulate spermatogenesis in reptilian testis. Lowered cholesterol levels of testis, increased weight and protein content of epididymis after gonadotrophins treatment indicate that the exogenous gonadotrophins could initiate the steroidogenesis in testis. Interstitial space was enlarged and filled with active Leydig cells. Spermatogenesis was not complete as no spermatozoa were observed in the lumen of seminiferous tubule. The factors essential for the completion of spermatogenesis are discussed.