Effects of dopamine 2 receptor antagonist on sex steroid levels, oocyte maturation and spawning performances in Waigieu seaperch (Psammoperca waigiensis)

The present study has investigated the effects of domperidone (DOM), a dopamine 2 receptor antagonist, on plasma steroid hormone levels and reproductive performances of a female tropical marine finfish, Waigieu seaperch (Psammoperca waigiensis), with potential for cultivation in Vietnam. We showed that oral treatment of DOM during early stage of the reproductive cycle had no significant effects on the maturation and reproductive performances of the female fish, while plasma steroid hormone (testosterone (T), 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P)) levels were modulated based on month, DOM dose and the individual hormones measured. Overall, these findings suggest that DOM may not be needed for the induction of maturation and spawning of this species under aquaculture conditions. The data in the present study are significant in highlighting practical efforts for reducing drug use, production costs and for a sustainable aquaculture in a developing country such as Vietnam.