Research Group 5: Reproduction Management

Subjects and Projects

 Research Topic 2 - Reproductive Disorders

• Herpes
• Assymetric reproductive aging

 Herpes

Asymmetric reproductive ageing - Reproductive problems directly attributable to long-term captivity

Problems attributable to long-term captivity have been identified and are responsible for the difficulties in establishing successful reproduction in captive populations of wildlife and, specifically, elephants and rhinoceroses. Historically, non-reproductive periods of 10-15 years in nulliparous rhinoceroses and elephants have not been considered problematic. New evidence suggests that prolonged exposure to endogenous sex steroids and long stretches of non-reproductive periods induce asymmetric reproductive aging in captive animals. The consequences result in a shortened reproductive life-span. Since early pregnancy seems to provide natural protective mechanisms against asymmetric reproductive aging processes and premature senescence, more frequent use of assisted reproductive technologies should be considered to ensure early pregnancy in captive animals for their preservation and to ensure increased genetic diversity of captive populations.