Ultrasound characterization of the reproductive system of male and female Caudisona durissa terrifica: correlation between anatomical changes and seasonal levels of sex hormones

Abstract

Will be used 120 adult rattlesnakes Caudisona durissa terrifca, 60 males and 60 females, with a minimum weight of 800g, from the Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals, CEVAP / UNESP, Botucatu, SP. The reproductive cycle of these animals will be monitored through the evaluation of ultrasound changes of the reproductive system, correlating the images with measurement of serum estradiol and progesterone in females and serum testosterone measurement in males. The examinations will be performed in four different months of the year (April, July, October and January) due to the seasonal reproductive cycle of these animals. Each month will be assessed 30 recently captured snakes in nature, being 15 males and 15 females. Expected to correlate changes in ultrasound images of the reproductive system of snakes with variations in serum levels of sex hormones during the different seasons. It is expected also to verify the accuracy of ultrasound examination in view of the organs in the reproductive system and establishing standards for sonographic anatomy for comparison purposes between healthy and sick animals, aiding in the diagnosis of disorders of the reproductive system and the development of more effective strategies for the maintenance and reproduction of these animals in captivity. (AU)