Illinois (N.S., 7: M.)In-depth investigations are needed on methods of semen collection and analysis in endangered nonhuman primates. Due to lack of resources, zoos need the assistance and support of universities and primate centers to perform these investigations. Several collection methods are described. Penile and rectal probe electrical stimulation methods for semen collection are compared. Rectal probe methods have been historically used in zoos; however, more representative samples may be acquired from primates indoctrinated to penile stimulation methods. Semen volume, concentration, pH, along with sperm morphology and motility are the commonly analyzed parameters for primates. However, with additional application to primate semen of motion analysis, viability tests, acrosomal analysis, hamster cell penetration tests, and sperm penetration tests, more accurate assessment of seminal capability may become routine. The examiner must be aware of the social and health situations of the primate under analysis, since any or all of these parameters can be adversely affected. The lion-tailed macaque (Mucucu sitenus) is used as an example for application of these analyses. The application of these analytical techniques to primate populations should allow better assessment about a primate's reproductive potential and the potential use of these semen samples for artificial techniques.

Steroid hormone levels were measured during unstimulated menstrual cycles of pig-tailed macaques (Mucucu nemestrina) and lion-tailed macaques (Mucucu silenus). The values were similar, suggesting that the pig-tailed macaque may be an appropriate model for in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer in the lion-tailed macaque.Two follicular stimulation protocols were compared to evaluate the yield and quality of the oocytes obtained from pig-tailed macaques. Five animals received a regimen of PMSG (Protocol I) and five received a regimen of Pergonal (Protocol 11). Oocytes from natural cycles were obtained from seven pig-tailed macaques during 21 cycles. If the oocytes extruded a polar body, they were inseminated and then observed for penetration and cleavage. Oocytes that produced quality embryos were transferred to recipient pig-tailed macaques or rhesus macaques (Mucuca muluttu).Oocytes from natural cycles had a higher percentage of good embryos produced from inseminated eggs (22.7%) compared to Protocol I (10.3%) or Protocol I1 (14.2%). However, Protocol I and Protocol II yielded more quality embryoskycle (2.0, 1.4, respectively) than natural cycles (0.24). Pig-tailed macaques were refractory to a second PMSG protocoI, but Pergonal and natural cycles could be repeated on the same individual before or after PMSG. A total of 12 embryos were transferred to six pig-tailed macaques and three rhesus macaques during natural or stimulated cycles. No pregnancies resulted. Refinement of IVF-ET

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