Abstract

This study was designed to determine the testicular abnormalities in rams slaughtered in Sokoto, Nigeria. The testicles of rams presented for slaughter were examined, and the age, breed, position, and sites of testicular abnormalities were noted. Out of 638 rams examined, 3 had testicular abnormalities, representing a prevalence of 0.47%, comprising 2 (0.31%) unilateral cryptorchidism and 1 (0.16%) unilateral hypoplasia. The prevalence of (0.58% (2/342) and 0.34% (1/296) were obtained at the Sokoto metropolitan abattoir and Batta Shuni slaughter slab, respectively. Two (0.31%) of the rams with abnormality were 1 < - ≤ 2 years old, comprising 1(0.16%) cryptorchid ram and testicular hypoplasia. There was 1 (0.16%) ram 2 < - ≤ 3 years with testicular hypoplasia. Based on breed, there was 1(0.16%) each of Yankasa, crosses (cryptorchidism) and Uda (testicular hypoplasia). The abnormalities were all on the right testis, while one cryptorchid testis each was in the subcutis and abdomen. There was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the testicular weight and mid-testicular circumference of the abnormal testis compared to the normal. The longitudinal length of the abnormal testis was smaller than the normal, although this was not significantly (p > 0.05) different. There was atrophy of the seminiferous tubules with a poorly developed tubular lumen in the cryptorchid ram. In addition, the epididymis was devoid of spermatogenic cells. The hypoplastic testis had reduced spermatogenic activity and slight testicular degeneration which were absent in the normal testis. The study shows that rams with testicular abnormalities are rare among rams slaughtered in Sokoto although those with abnormalities may be infertile, rendering them unfit for breeding.

Key words: Cryptorchidism, Infertility, Ram, Testicular abnormalities, Testicular hypoplasia