Influence of acid phosphatase and arylsulfatase inhibitor additions on fertility rate of Siberian sturgeon ( Acipenser baerii Brandt, 1869).

Acid phosphatase and arylsulphatase are present in the semen of many animal species, including fish. The presence of these two enzymes has also been confirmed in the semen of Siberian sturgeon ( Acipenser baerii). The aim of this study was therefore to determine the potential role of acid phosphatase and arylosulphatase in the fertilization process. Tested were the additions of ammonium molybdate (acid phosphatase inhibitor) and Ag NO₃ (arylsulphatase inhibitor) regarding their effects on the sperm motility spermatozoa rate and the fertilization rate (in two inhibiting variants: enzymes present in spermatozoa, sperm treated; enzymes present in spermatozoa and eggs, sperm + eggs treated). There was no significant deterioration in motility parameters with either of the applied inhibitors. Ammonium molybdate caused a significant decrease in the fertilization rate (sperm + treated eggs from 86.1 to 9.5%); Ag NO₃ added only to spermatozoa resulted in a complete inhibition of fertilization. Results indicate that the acid phosphatase activity in eggs and arylsuphatase activity in sperm are necessary for the fertilization process in the Siberian sturgeon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]