NEWSLINK: The Eurasian lynx as a key to the conservation and future viability of the endangered Iberian lynx

Date:

March 5, 2014

Source:

Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. (FVB)

Summary:

Understanding the mechanisms which control reproduction in lynx is essential for their continued viability and effective conservation. Scientists discovered that the Corpus luteum of the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) has the longest lifespan among mammals known to date. This hormone producing tissue is responsible for restricting this lynx species (and presumably the other lynx species as well) to only having one estrous cycle per year (mono-estrous) and therefore only one opportunity per year to become pregnant.

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