Effects of Leuprolide Acetate in Depot Suspension on Testosterone Levels, Testicular Size and Semen Production in Male Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops Truncatus).

摘要

This reports on a chemical contraception method infrequently used in cetaceans. To facilitate the proper management of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), a GnRH agonist, leuprolide acetate in depot suspension (Lupron(R)), was used to evaluate effects on testosterone levels, testicular size, and semen production. It appears Lupron(R) effectively decreases testosterone levels, testicular size, and sperm production. The use of this product may lead to an effective reversible means of male contraception.