Correlation between hormonal profile, behaviour and secondary sexual traits in male ostrich (Struthio camelus)

• Grant number: 07/00786-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: October 01, 2007
• End date: September 30, 2009
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Reproduction
• Principal Investigator: Renato Campanarut Barnabe
• Grantee: Renato Campanarut Barnabe
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The aim of the present experiment is to evaluate the serum levels of testosterone and cortisol of male ostriches, and correlate those values with secondary sexual traits and behavior during both the off breeding and the breeding season. The circadian rhythm of the cited hormones will also be evaluated. The hormonal levels will be performed by radio immune assay (RIA), which will be standardized and validated for the specie. (AU)