Histological and Morophometrical study of male reproductive tract in Rousettus aegyptiacus (Mammalia: Megachiroptera) in Iran

Abstract

In this study, the male reproductive tract of fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) was surveyed. 5 bats were captured by mist net on July and were anesthetized in laboratory, weighted and dissected. Their genital organs were measured, and fixed in formalin 10%. The sections (5 µm) were prepared by tissue processing, stained with haematoxylin and eosin and mounted. Obtained data were analyzed by ANOVA and t-test. Finding showed that testes were in scrotum, and the weight of right and left testicle were different significantly (P>0.05). The epididymides were located at the medial border of the testis, and cylindrical penis was projected cranially. A prostate, paired ampullary gland, large seminal vesicle, and Cowper’s glands were observed. Histological features of these organs like to the other mammals, and numerous spermatozoa and concentrated secretion were seen. According to these results, this species is in active phase of sexual response cycle in summer.