Neuroendocrine control of broodiness and incubation behaviour in ratites.

P.J. Sharp, Irek Malecki, K.M. Williams, G.B. Martin

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperConference paperpeer-review

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 languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdvances in Comparative Endocrinology
Subtitle of host publicationProceedings of the 13th International Congress of Comparative Endocrinology
EditorsS. Kawashima, S. Kikuyama
Place of PublicationBologna
PublisherMonduzzi Editore
Pages417-422
ISBN (Print)978-88-3231-116-7
Publication statusPublished - 1997
Event13th International Congress of Comparative Endocrinology - Yokohama, Japan
Duration: 16 Nov 199721 Nov 1997

Conference

Conference13th International Congress of Comparative Endocrinology
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityYokohama
Period16/11/9721/11/97

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