Reproductive cycle in the male African fruit bat (Epomops franqueti)

Abstract

Epomops franqueti is common in Sub-Saharan Africa. Unlike micro chiropteran, information on the reproductive activity of this bat is scanty. The morpho-physiology of the testis and epididymis of E. franqueti was investigated to determine the seasonal reproductive activity. Sixty adult male E. franqueti were captured at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Histomorphometry of the testis and epididymis was investigated. Serum hormonal assays were carried out using ELISA. Concentrations of testosterone, FSH, and LH were least (0.25, 5.80, and 7.01 IU/L, respectively) and highest (3.80, 12.03 and 14.04 IU/L, respectively) during late dry and late wet seasons, respectively, being significantly different. The early and late wet seasons had the highest gonadosomatic (0.20%) and epididymal mass (0.08%) indices, respectively. The least values were recorded during the early dry season for both gonadosomatic (0.15%) and epididymal mass (0.06%) indices. Epomops franqueti may be a seasonal breeder.