The brain-pituitary-gonad axis and the gametogenesis

Abstract

The brain-pituitary-gonadal axis (BPG-axis) plays an important role in gametogenesis in teleosts as well as in other vertebrates, according to data well established in the literature. On the other hand, the study of the endocrine control of reproduction in fish has acquired special importance in recent years for representing the possibility of specific intervention in favor of endangered species, being able to favor the reproductive process of populations that, in general, suffer the consequences of environmental changes affecting inland waters nowadays. This chapter discusses different aspects of the PBG axis of South American teleosts, including the morphology of the pituitary gland, gonads, and gametes; the development of gametes throughout the reproductive cycle; and the hormonal control of gametogenesis. It also addresses the most important known aspects of neuroendocrine reproduction control.