Stages of spermatids in the domestic fowl: a light microscope study using Araldite sections

Ten stages in spermatid maturation have been identified in the testis of the domestic fowl, using Araldite-embedded material. Identification of stages 1-3 was dependent on the position of the idiosome and the proacrosome granule. Stages 4-8 were identified by the shape of the acrosome, shape and length of nucleus, and the shape of the cell, The presence of the manchette and the mitochondrial sheath helped identify stages 9 and 10. It is suggested that the identification of stages of spermatids in this manner may be of use in ascertaining whether or no a seminiferous epithelial cycle is present in this species.