Gross anatomical studies on the oesophagus of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor)

Abstract

The sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), a widely distributed cervid species in Asia, displayed various dietary adaptations that have influenced its digestive anatomy. This study aims to investigate the macroscopic anatomy of the oesophagus in adult sambar deer. Organs were collected from six animals that had perished in accidents from zoos in Kerala. The morphology, morphometry, and disposition of the oesophagus were examined. The oesophagus, a musculo-membranous tube, exhibited three anatomical regions: cervical, thoracic, and abdominal, with an average length of 77.27 ± 2.18 cm and a diameter of 2.90 ± 0.10 cm. The findings may contribute to understanding the digestive anatomy of sambar deer, offering insights into their feeding habits and potential implications for wildlife conservation and captive management.