Morphology of the testis of the one-humped camel in relation to reproductive activity

Histological and morphometric studies on the camel testis have been carried out systematically at regular monthly intervals during a period of one year. The testicular weight was minimal during summer, while the maximum weight was attained during the coldest months from November until March. Diameters of the seminiferous tubules were multiphasic with a tendency to be wider during summer. The ratio of the area occupied by seminiferous tubules to that occupied by interstitial tissue revealed that the latter occupied a larger area than that of the seminiferous tubules during winter, while a reversed relationship occurred from March onwards and was especially marked after April, i.e. in summer. In addition, spermatogenesis was noted in all testes examined throughout the year; however, there was a difference in the quality and quantity of spermatogenic cells between the monthly groups evaluated. November, December and January were the months in which spermatogenic activity was most striking. A correlation was established between testicular weight, amount and quality of testicular interstitial tissue, spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm content and, hence, testicular function on the one hand and season of the year on the other hand. The cyclic structural changes in the testis appeared to be in parallel with the rutting activity of the camel. It was suggested also that the camel is not a typical seasonal breeder as it does not go through sexual quiescence. The reproductive activity of the camel builds up during September and October, and the animal is in actual rut during November, December, January and February, with a drop in March and thereafter.