NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY OF LIZARD REPRODUCTION

A research program directed toward elucidating the neuroendocrine control of reptilian reproductive behavior is described. Following a detailed description of the behavioral repertoire of the lizard, Anolis carolinensis, the hormonal control of male and female reproductive behavior was determined. The distribution of hormone binding sites in the central nervous system was then identified autoradiographically. The function of these sites in regulating male reproductive behavior and gonadotropin secretion was studied using radiofrequency lesion and intracranial implantation techniques. A comparison of these findings with those on birds and mammals reveals both uniformity and diversity in neuroendocrine controlling mechanisms in vertebrates.