Cycles de reproduction des microchiroptères troglophiles du nord-est du Gabon

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Abstract
In northeastern Gabon (latitude 0.1.degree. N-longitude 12.degree. E), the microchiroptera living in caves show a reproduction rhythm which is strictly seasonal and monoestrous. In the 3 spp. concerned, all the females give birth once a year in Oct. to a single young. In Hipposideros caffer, the females of some populations give birth in March (boreal cycle) although other populations, living in neighboring caves, give birth in Oct. (austral cycle). A histological study confirmed the field data and gave results on the sexual cycle of both sexes. In the male, spermatogenesis immediately precedes the mating season. In the female, contrary to what occurs in temperate countries, ovulation takes place a short time later. Implantation is not delayed, but follows fecundation. The annual sexual cycle (pregnancy and lactating period) is 6 mo. in Miniopterus inflatus and H. caffer, and 12 mo. in H. commersoni. The cycle of sexual activity in the male is shorter than the cycle of similar species in temperate countries.

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