Changes in ovarian histology and serum sex hormone levels of Lavender jobfish <i>Pristipomoides sieboldii</i> preserved under refrigerated conditions

Abstract

In order to restore the stock of Lavender jobˆsh Pristipomoides sieboldii, we investigated diŠerences in ovarian histology and serum sex steroid hormone (testosterone and 17-beta estradiol) levels between the time of collection and after 24 hours of refrigeration. Additionally, the maturation process of eggs and diŠerences in ovary location-dependent egg development were examined. In mid-May 2012, 12 females were caught byˆshing at Shirama-zone near Ie Island, Okinawa. Gonads and blood were collected immediately afterˆshing and again after 24 hours of refrigeration. Histological observation of the ovaries revealed that there was no diŠerence in locationdependent egg development, and that oogenic germ cells from oogonia to mature oocytes were localized in the ovary simultaneously. Additionally, we showed that ovarian tissue did not exhibit histological diŠerences, whereas sex steroid hormone levels diŠered between the time of collection and after 24 hours of refrigeration.