The influence of photoperiod on growth and sexual function in male and female collared lemmings (Dicrostonyx groenlandicus)

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Abstract
The effect of photoperiod on sexual function and growth in weanling male and female collard lemmings was studied. Males and females maintained in 6 h light (L): 18 h dark (D) after weaning were larger at the end of 70 days than their siblings kept in 20L:4D. Males in 6L:18D were longer and overall body growth was greater. Males in 6L:18D had heavier adrenals but there were no differences in the weights of testes, preputial glands of seminal vesicles or in the mean testosterone levels of the 2 groups. Females in 6L:18D had heavier preputial glands than the 20L:4D females. There were no differences between the 2 groups in uterine, ovarian or adrenal weights or in the number or mean size of atretic healthy Graafian follicles. Adult males kept in 6L:18D increased more in body weight than those in 20L:4D, but there was no detectable influence of the short photoperiod on reproductive function.