Study of the anatomy and histology of male reproductive system of the Asian snake-eyed skink, Ablepharus pannonicus (Suria: Scincidae)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11123434Keywords:
Reproductive pattern, Spermatogenic tubule, Seasonal reproductive pattern, TestisAbstract
This study examines and compares the anatomy and histology of the male reproductive system in Ablepharus pannonicus from Scincidae family during spring and autumn. Male specimens of the Asian-eyed skink, A. pannonicus, were collected from the northern mountain slopes of Sorkheh-Dizeh village, 125 km west of Kermanshah Province, west Iran. Post-anesthetization, specimens were lab-dissected and sections of the male reproductive system underwent tissue processing. Using a rotary microtome, serial sections were prepared and slides were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin for histological study. The results showed that the lumen of each testicular spermatogenic tubule is abundant with free sperm in spring. However, in the autumn season, almost no free sperm can be seen, and more developing spermatids can be observed. Therefore, the reproductive pattern in the male lizard A. pannonicus is seasonal. Its gonads and reproductive ducts show the greatest change and increase in activity in spring (May). Simultaneously, with the decrease in ambient temperature and the end of the breeding season, the volume and activity of the gonads also decrease. No signs of sexual activity can be seen in this lizard in autumn (November). Given the findings of this research, there exists a possibility that the animal prepares itself for hibernation by feeding and storing fat.
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