Bottlenose dolphins housed in semi-natural settings and at Ocean Park, Hong Kong, are providing information on cetacean health, nutrition, genetics and physiology of reproduction. Management strategies for Tursiops provide a model for captive propagation of endangered species.

Laboratory analysis of serum progesterone, total estrogens and testosterone levels of T. truncatus shows no significant species/subspecies difference. Reproductive hormone serum levels indicate various reproductive cycle events:

1.  Anestrus or immature females; <3 ng/ml serum progesterone, <60pg/ml total estrogens.

2.  Ovulation, pregnancy or pseudopregnancy; >3ng/ml progesterone.

3.  Folliculogenesis; >60, up to 600 pg/ml total estrogens.

4.  Immature male; <5ng/ml serum testosterone throughout the year.

5.  Sexually or reproductively mature male; >5ng/ml testosterone seasonally.

There may be correlation between serum testosterone levels, semen production and testicle size, measured by ultrasound. Ultrasound is also used to diagnose and monitor pregnancies.

The introduction of genetic variability and monitoring of inbreeding coefficients are critical management elements in captive propagation programs. DNA fingerprinting was used to establish paternity of a calf born at Ocean Park.

Laboratory analysis indicated 44.9 to 96.4 kcal/kg of fish fed (with vitamin and mineral supplements) provide maintenance of condition during gestation. The females are fed ad lib.

Bacterial screening of dolphins and their open ocean pen water and treated tank water is routine over 60 species of pathogenic microorganisms were isolated from both settings.