Reproductive traits and annual hormonal cycles of Iranian brown trout, Salmo trutta fario

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Fisheries Sciences, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran

2 Department of Aquaculture, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran

10.22124/cjes.2026.9847

Abstract

There is significant variability in the reproductive organs of fish, making it challenging to establish a "universal" model for their basic function and structure. To address this, a study was conducted on Salmo trutta fario (STF), focusing on potential seasonal changes and histological effects. Five fish were captured during each season. After measuring the length and weight of each specimen, blood samples were collected and a histological evaluation of the reproductive organs was performed. Our findings revealed that hormone levels in both male and female STF peaked during the fall season. This conclusion was supported by measurements of seasonal hormone levels, physical characteristics, and histological examinations. Consequently, we confirmed that STF undergo seasonal changes, suggesting an adaptation of the gonads to meet physiological needs. So, it can be concluded that sex hormone levels increase significantly from summer, reach their peak in the fall, and then tend to decrease after mating.

Keywords