Histogenesis of Testis in Gaddi Sheep Foetii

Abstract

The histogenesis of the testis was studied in sixty eight Gaddi sheep foetii ranging from 36^th day to 140^th day (2 cm to 40 cm CRL) of gestation. The foetii were measured for their crown-rump length (CRL) in cm and were divided into four stages on the basis of their age viz. stage I (31-60 days), stage II (61-90 days), stage III (91-120 days) and stage IV (121- till term). In the indifferent gonad the cortex and medulla were differentiable by 37^th day of gestation. The tunica albuginea and seminiferous tubules containing large cells, small cells and sertoli cells were observed on 46^th day of gestation. The tunica albuginea was distinguishable in outer tunica fibrosa and inner tunica vasculosa on 50^th day of gestation. The process of convolution started in the developing sex cords by 61^st day of gestation and seen clearly on 137^th day of gestation.