A simple method for collecting sturgeon eggs using a catheter

The paper describes a method for collecting eggs from sturgeon using a catheter. A catheter made of artificial material is introduced through the urogenital opening into the body cavity of the female, and this permits opening the ovarian funnels. Next, exterior abdominal massage creates pressure that forces eggs into the catheter through which they flow into a collection receptacle. This method has been applied since 2004 to culture Siberian sturgeon, Acipenser baerii Brandt, Russian sturgeon, Acipenser gueldenstaedti Brandt, a hybrid of Siberian sturgeon with Russian sturgeon and bester (Huso huso L. x Acipenser ruthenus L.). It is compared with the Podushka egg collection method that requires cutting the end section of the oviduct. The quantity of eggs collected in proportion to female body weight was higher with the Podushka method at about 12.5% than it was with the catheter method at 12.1% of the female body weight. Using the catheter method, the eggs collected in fewer portions than with the method in which the oviduct was cut. The catheter method of collecting eggs can be an alternative method thanks to its low invasiveness and ease of application.