Ovulation induction in anovulatory southern white rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum simum) without altrenogest

Abstract

Lack of ovulation is common in captive southern white rhino females and contributes to poor reproductive success. We show that ovulation can be induced efficiently with exogenous hormones using a single treatment protocol. This information can lead to improved genetic management of captive populations acting as insurance against extinction.

Abstract

All species in the extant Rhinocerotidae family are experiencing increased threats in the wild, making captive populations essential genetic reservoirs for species survival. However, managed species face distinct challenges in captivity, resulting in populations that are not self-sustaining. Captive southern white rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum simum) have low reproductive rates and presumed acyclicity is common among females. Although many females fail to ovulate, follicle growth may occur and ovulation can be hormonally induced. Female southern white rhino ( n = 6), housed as a bachelorette group, were determined to be ovulatory ( n = 1) or anovulatory ( n = 5) by serial ultrasound and fecal progestagen analysis. When follicles reached pre-ovulatory size (~35 mm), females ( n = 4) were induced to ovulate in 11 trials with a GnRH analog (4.5 mg, SucroMate™) via single intramuscular injection. Nine trials resulted in ovulation (81.8%), all between 36 and 48 hours post-treatment. Ovulations were confirmed by progestagen elevation above baseline coincident with visualization of a corpus luteum (CL). Luteal phases were characterized as short (<50 days) or long (≥50 days). Between short and long cycles, only the number of days of progestagen above baseline was significantly different ( P < 0.05), while days with visible luteal structures was not significant ( P = 0.11). Both cycle types were observed following both spontaneous and induced ovulations. Furthermore, we showed that longer cycle lengths do not necessarily indicate early pregnancy loss as none of the females were bred or inseminated during the study. While anovulation is common in the southern white rhino captive population, ovulation induction can be achieved efficiently and predictably for use in conjunction with artificial insemination or to facilitate natural breeding. This information will lead to more efficient use of assisted reproductive technologies to overcome reproductive challenges in this species and to generate genetically healthy captive populations as a hedge against extinction.