Dynamics of Vitellogenin and Vitellogenesis-Inhibiting Hormone Levels in Adult and Subadult Whiteleg Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei: Relation to Molting and Eyestalk Ablation1

Significant fluctuations in vitellogenin (VG) levels were observed during the molting cycle in adult whiteleg shrimp.

• VG mRNA expression and VG concentrations exhibited similar patterns during the molting cycle.
• VG levels increased significantly at early intermolt (stage C0) in adult shrimp, but not in subadults.
• Unilateral and bilateral eyestalk ablation led to increased VG levels in adults, while only bilateral ablation affected subadults.
• Vitellogenesis-inhibiting hormone (VIH) levels showed differing patterns between adults and subadults, with adults exhibiting high levels in late postmolt.
• Unilateral eyestalk ablation increased VIH levels in adults 10 days post-ablation, followed by a decrease at 20 days.
• Eyestalk ablation promoted ovarian maturation without reducing VIH concentrations in the hemolymph.

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