Ultrasonographic Findings of Ovary and Testis in Adult Acipenser Persicus during Artificial Propagation (Stage V of Maturity)

Objective- Acipenser persicus is one of the most important caviar producing fishes in the Caspian Sea and one of the endangered species of the sturgeon fishes. For breeding of sturgeons, large numbers of animals have to be captured and examined to obtain sufficient numbers of mature fishes that will spawn within a few months in captivity. Design- Original study Animals- A total of 66 adult Acipenser persicus (40 female and 26 male) Procedures- In the present study the gonads of adult Acipenser persicus have been assessed by ultrasonography during artificial propagation to detect the features and changes of the ovary and testis. A total of 66 adult Acipenser persicus (40 fofemale and 26 male), during artificial propagation program, were used in this practice. They underwent ultrasonographic study using a Pie Medical 200 VET ultrasonic machine. A right and left lateral parasagittal of the fish between the pectoral and anal fins and a transverse view was taken. Results- Ultrasonographic view of ovary and testis in adult Acipenser persicus during artificial propagation (stage V of maturity) were detected. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- Ultrasonography prepares useful data about gonad structure, echotexture, and echogenicity during the artificial breeding period. Ultrasonography can be an accurate, non-invasive, and fast technique to assess the gonads of sturgeons in propagation centers.