QUANTIFICATION OF POSTNATAL CHANGES IN THE GERMINAL EPITHELIUM OF MADRAS RED RAM LAMBS MAINTAINED UNDER DIFFERENT FEEDING SYSTEMS

Abstract

Quantification of the germinal epithelium in Madras Red ram lambs during postnatal period was carried out. The number of supporting cells per cross-section of seminiferous cords and the percentage of the seminiferous cords with gonocytes in the testis of Madras Red ram lambs were increased from birth to three months in pre-weaning group. The quantification of the germinal epithelium also revealed difference between grazing and feed lot systems. The percentage of most advanced stages of the seminiferous tubules were more in ram lambs of feed lot system than the grazing system.