Testicular histomorphometry and sperm characteristics in Lori rams (Ovis aries L.)

Lori sheep breed is one of the important genetic resources in the Zagros region of Iran. Accurate knowledge of reproduction of Lori sheep is an essential step for optimal utilization of its potential. The present research aimed to study the testis histology and identify the sperm parameters in Lori rams. Ten healthy rams 2-3 years, were selected. After slaughtering, the testes were removed and epididymis minced to release sperm. The averages of weight, volume, length and diameter of testis were 237.00±6.56 g, 235.30±3.77 cm3, 9.81±0.32 cm and 7.63±0.42 cm, respectively. Study of testicular sections was shown that the mean diameter, lumen and height of epithelium of seminiferous tubules were 220.04±8.73 mm, 125.10±13.99 mm and 65.68±13.54 mm, respectively. The mean number of Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes and spermatids per each section were 1.90±0.87, 6.02±1.44, 15.30±5.90, 9.65±3.82 and 7.60±2.63, respectively. Rate of motility, viability and normal morphology of released spermatozoa from epididymis were 64.42 %, 83.81 % and 90.5 %, respectively. The knowledge generated in the present study can be used in reproduction for comparative reproductive biology of mammalian species.