Sperm storage and motility in the ovary of the marine sculpin Alcichthys alcicornis (Teleostei: Scorpaeniformes), with internal gametic association.

摘要: Elkhorn sculpin, Alcichthys alcicornis, is a marine teleost with unique reproductive mode called "internal gametic association," in which sperm introduced into the ovary by copulation enter micropylar canal of ovulated eggs ovarian cavity, but actual sperm-egg fusion does not occur until have been released sea water. It also known that this fish multiple spawner, spawns at intervals few days for one month, and beginning spawning season retain their fertilizability entire period. To clarify how maintained internally, ultrastructure sperm, morphological characteristics related to storage ovary, motility were investigated. Mature generally normal form devoid acrosomal structures. However, it was found midpiece comparatively elongated has compact aggregation many small-size mitochondria. The intraovarian remained floating fluid throughout season. showed high isotonic weak alkaline solution, containing sodium ions, similar fish. Sperm continued move artificial 7-14 days. Considering these results together, thought due plentiful energy generated