Reproductive cycle and human chorionic gonadotropin-induced ovulation in hatchery reared Japanese catfish Silurus asotus

The annual reproductive cycle, including the first maturity of ovarian development and plasma levels of testosterone (T) and estradiol‐17β (E2), was examined in female Japanese catfish Silurus asotus reared under natural conditions. In addition, the possible period that final oocyte maturation and ovulation can be induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection were investigated. Results showed that female Japanese catfish matured 1 year after hatching under reared conditions. The beginning of vitellogenesis was in March and ovarian development and plasma T and E2 levels peaked in June. Thereafter, the gonadosomatic index gradually decreased to October and regression of oocytes at the tertiary yolk globule stage was observed. Female Japanese catfish could be induced to final oocyte maturation and ovulation by hCG treatment during the period from June to September. In addition, the fertilization rates were relatively high and stable during this period. These results suggest that yearling female Japanese catfish can be used as brood stock for seed production. This is the first study to investigate the annual reproductive cycle in Japanese catfish. These data will provide useful information regarding brood stock management and seed production.