REPRODUCTIVE ASPECTS OF JAGUAR (PANTHERA ONCA): FEMALE

Abstract

Objective: Describe the reproductive characteristics of the female jaguar as well as assisted reproduction techniques.

Design/methodology/approach: A literature review about reproductive characteristics and assisted reproduction techniques was done to documented information about it. Results: The Jaguar is considered the largest feline in America, females are 1.57 to 2.19 m of length and weigh 45 to 82 kg. The jaguar female is ready for mating when it is about 2 years old. Regarding the estrous cycle, it is divided into: proestrus, estrus, diestrous, interestrous and anestrus. Environment influence on the reproductive behavior of the jaguar, being the steroids those that stimulate the production of pheromones to attract the male; in the female the secretion is cyclical. The gestation lasts approximately between 90 and 110 days and they usually give birth to 1 or up to 4 young. In the case of assisted reproduction, artificial insemination could be useful to preserve genetic material from animals with outstanding characteristics.

Limitations on study/implications: The destruction of forests and jungles, the fragmentation of habitat, indiscriminate hunting, the lack of prey as a food source and the conflict with ranchers has put the Jaguar on the brink of extinction, in addition there is little information about its reproductive characteristics, which is why in Mexico, it is imperative to generate this information, mainly in free-living jaguar.

Findings/conclusions: Reproductive characteristics of jaguar female were documented from a literature review as well as assisted reproduction techniques. Knowledge of these will allow developed reproductive strategies to work on a national conservation and reproduction strategy to preserve the species.