Implantation of ferret ova fertilized by mink sperm

Abstract

Abstract Epididymal mink ( Mustela vison ) sperm were inseminated into the uterine horns of ferrets ( Mustela furo ) at various times before or after ovulation which was induced by intraperitoneal injection of H.C.G. The Fallopian tubes or uterine horns of each animal were examined at different times. The ova were recovered and examined microscopically for the evidence of fertilization at 60–66 hours. Cleavage of ova, blastocyst formation during 4–12 days, and the development of embryos during 22 to 42 days were also ascertained. The fertilization rate is rather low, ranging between 8–41%, probably depending on the number of sperm inseminated and the time of insemination in relation to ovulation. The cleavage rate is lower than either the ferret or mink ova, but no delayed implantation was observed as in the case of the mink. The fertilized ova developed and implanted, but degeneration occurred at various stages, although some of them went to advanced stages.