Influence of testosterone on mating behaviour in the male crested newt (Triturus cristatus carnifexLaur.)

Abstract
Preliminary results on the effects of testosterone and cyproterone acetate (CPA) on the crested newt's sexual behaviour are reported. The intraperitoneal administration of testosterone to the castrated male did not reactivate sexual behaviour. Similarly the anti-androgen CPA did not affect courtship behaviour in short-term and long-term treated animals. Probably the mode of administration may influence the effect. Spermatophore deposition was impaired in the long-term treated males. Sexual behaviour of this amphibian does not appear to be exclusively androgen-dependent. However, further research is necessary to understand how androgens and pituitary hormones control the newt's sexual behaviour.