Piecing together the puzzle of carnivore reproduction

Recent advances in feline and canine reproductive studies demonstrate how m ethodically piecing this information together is beginning to reap rewards for wildlife conservation programs. Non-invasive endocninology can be used to monitor female reproductive function, time con-specific introductions or Al, and diagnose pregnancy. Sperm morphology characteristics and cell memb rane function may be genetically inherited and differ between genetically d iverse and inbred species/populations in felids. It is not clear if the sam e is true for the endangered red wolf. While standards exist for freezing f eline and canine sperm, new information using fluorescent staining and zona penetration assays (ZPA) indicates that significant damage can occur durin g pre-freeze cooling, and may also be related to a species' genetic diversi ty. Posthumous gamete salvage from genetically valuable animals not only pr ovides a means to study sperm and oocyte physiology but also to assist with genetic management of populations. Using the knowledge gained, IVM/IVF and ICSI have been successful in the domestic cat and Al has resulted in offsp ring in numerous non-domestic felids. However, understanding the processes of IVM/IVF is still not well understood in canids. New information reveals that sperm and the cumulus cells may be integral to oocyte maturation and t hat canine epididymal sperm are not capable of undergoing fertilization. Th e acquisition of knowledge and application of biotechnologies lags behind f or non-domestic canid conservation programs. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.