The Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) is an Australian and New Zealand based organisation that supports basic and applied research across all aspects of reproductive biology. This review highlights the key themes from the annual SRB meeting, which was held virtually in 2021. Topics included novel technologies in reproduction, advances in contraception, non-model species, reproductive ageing and sustaining a pregnancy.

Amphibian biodiversity is rapidly declining and we must improve our ability to captive breed animals. However, artificial reproductive techniques are often species specific and different species require specific protocols. We tested two hormone treatments on sperm induction in an endangered frog and found that only one hormone was successful, and sperm quantity and quality decreased rapidly after treatment. This study represents a useful starting point for developing artificial reproductive techniques for non-model organisms to improve captive breeding strategies.

With only two northern white rhinos left in the world, it is necessary to study oocyte and embryo development in a model subspecies, the southern white rhino. This study evaluated gene expression in the granulosa cells responsible for oocyte maturation, as well as oocyte glucose uptake during in vitro maturation. This information is crucial to optimise in vitro maturation and embryo development for the southern, and ultimately the northern, white rhino.