Authors
Joseph Saragusty, Robert Hermes, Heribert Hofer, Tim Bouts, Frank Göritz, and Thomas B. Hildebrandt
Summary
Pre-determining fetal sex is against the random, equal opportunity both conceptus sexes have by nature. Yet, under a wide variety of circumstances, populations shift their birth sex ratio from the expected unity. The prevailing assumption has been that males produce approximately equal numbers of X and Y chromosome bearing spermatozoa in large quantities and that they have no say in this regard. However, males seem to be able to manipulate the sex ratio of their ejaculates. Here we describe a protocol for fluorescence in situ hybridisation that can help evaluate the ratio between spermatozoa carrying either of the two sex chromosomes in the ejaculate, and determine the male’s contribution to the sexual conflict. We also discuss the benefits and shortcomings of the technique. The protocol can be completed within 31 h, 20 of which are hybridisation time. Although this protocol has been devised for the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis), with minor modifications and a change of probes it can be adapted to other species as well.Further details
The protocol was published on Protocol Exchange on 13 September 2012. To see the entire protocol, click on the source link.Advertisement
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