Gynogenesis in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)

Abstract

Homozygous gynogenetic fry of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) were produced by heat-shocking eggs, activated with UV-irradiated sperm (1 : 3 diluted, 10 ml, at 2200 J m−2 min−1) during metaphase of the first mitosis. Consistent yields of 5–15% viable, gynogenetic fry were obtained when eggs were shocked at 40°C for 2 min, 28–30 min after fertilization. The homozygous nature of the gynogenetic fry was demonstrated by the mendelian segregation patterns of three recessive mutant pigment genes. Homozygous inbred strains were produced by heterozygous gynogenetic reproduction (second polar body retention) of homozygous gynogenetic females, while F1 hybrids were produced by crossing these females with homozygous gynogenetic male siblings. The clonal nature of these strains was unequivocally demonstrated by the acceptance of reciprocally exchanged skin allografts.