ISSN:
1573-1561
Keywords:
Sex pheromone
;
sperm release
;
egg release
;
uric acid
;
purine
;
reproduction
;
polychaete
;
Annelida
;
Platynereis dumerilii
;
coelomic fluid
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract In the marine polychaete, Platynereis dumerilii, reproductive behavior in the two sexes is synchronized by the consecutive discharge of male and female sex-specific pheromones. After the female releases the eggs into the free water column, immediate fertilization is achieved by several males circling around the eggs emitting sperm clouds. We report the isolation and identification of the sperm-release pheromone present in the coelomic fluid of sexually mature females. Each step in isolation was guided by bioassay. Isolation methods included extraction and solvent partitioning and separation methods included ultrafiltration and high-performance liquid chromatography. Uric acid was identified as the sperm-release pheromone that is discharged by the female with release of the eggs. The threshold concentration for sperm release by males was determined as 0.6 μM.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1022328610423
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