QUANTIFYING HISTOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE GONADS OF SEXUALLY MATURING FATHEAD MINNOWS (PIMEPHALES PROMELAS): PHASE TWO (original) (raw)

This study reports on the histological development of gonads in sexually maturing fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) as a foundation for further research on endocrine active substances. Findings indicate the importance of age and stage in evaluating the impact of (anti-)androgens and aromatase inhibitors, suggesting that fish around 80-90 days post-hatch are optimal for detecting such activities. The results establish a baseline for future evaluations of gonadal development in relation to environmental and experimental factors.