Abstract
Incubation and care of the young in Ratites is undertaken exclusively or predominantly the male. The endocrine changes associated with incubation have been described in the male emu and may be representative of Ratites in general. In the emu, incubation behaviour is associated with increased prolactin and decreased LH and testosterone secretion. Increased prolactin secretion is associated with increased hypothalamic prolactin releasing hormone, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide. The decrease in LH secretion is not associated with decreased hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone-I. The mechanism responsible for the initiation of incubation behaviour in male Ratites is unknown but may be similar to that in the well-studied male Ring dove. It is suggested that the onset of incubation involves interaction between progesterone and environmental cues from the nest, eggs and female partner, acting through hypothalamic progesterone receptor. The onset of incubation may be consolidated by increased prolactin secretion induced by tactile contact with the nest and eggs.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Advances in Comparative Endocrinology |
Subtitle of host publication | Proceedings of the 13th International Congress of Comparative Endocrinology |
Editors | S. Kawashima, S. Kikuyama |
Place of Publication | Bologna |
Publisher | Monduzzi Editore |
Pages | 417-422 |
ISBN (Print) | 978-88-3231-116-7 |
Publication status | Published - 1997 |
Event | 13th International Congress of Comparative Endocrinology - Yokohama, Japan Duration: 16 Nov 1997 → 21 Nov 1997 |
Conference
Conference | 13th International Congress of Comparative Endocrinology |
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Country/Territory | Japan |
City | Yokohama |
Period | 16/11/97 → 21/11/97 |