Abstract:In the present study, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) genes were cloned by using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA 5' and 3' ends (RACE) in Scatophagus argus. The full-length of FSHR cDNA was 2538 bp, encoding a 702 amino acid protein and the full-length of LHR cDNA was 3315 bp, encoding a 722 amino acid protein. Both of them contain seven TM helix domains, a feature of glycoprotein hormone receptor (GHRs) family. Multiple sequence alignment shows that S. argus GtHRs have the highest homology with that of Dicentrarchus labrax. mRNA expression patterns showed that a high expression level of FSHR was detected at stage I in ovary, followed by an obvious decrease at stage Ⅱ, Ⅲ and IV. In the testis, the expression of FSHR gene increased gradually during early stages (stage I, Ⅱ and Ⅲ), and apparently reduced at stage IV. Our results indicates that according to H.E staining, sperm maturation started at stage Ⅲ, implying FSHR played an important role in early stages of the gonadal development, and LHR is vital for sperms/oocytes maturation and release as well as sperms.