Age-Related Morphometric and Hormonal Changes in the Testes and Epididymis of Hamdani Sheep

• Ayser Hamid Salman

  Author

This study aimed to evaluate age-related changes in testicular and epididymal morphometry alongside key reproductive and metabolic hormones in Hamdani sheep during the first year of life. Sixteen clinically healthy male lambs were allocated into four age groups (6, 8, 10, and 12 months). Testicular and epididymal measurements were recorded post-slaughter, and serum concentrations of testosterone, thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), calcium, and albumin were analyzed. Results revealed a significant (P ≤ 0.05) progressive increase in testicular size, weight, and volume with advancing age, with peak values observed at 12 months. Epididymal development, including segmental weights and total length, followed a similar pattern, indicating functional maturation of sperm storage and transport systems. Testosterone concentrations increased significantly in older groups, coinciding with enhanced morphometric development. Thyroid hormones peaked at 10 months, suggesting increased metabolic activity during the peri-pubertal stage. Additionally, calcium and albumin levels showed age-related variations linked to metabolic and reproductive functions. In conclusion, reproductive development in Hamdani sheep is strongly age-dependent and closely associated with endocrine and metabolic changes. The period between 10 and 12 months represents a critical window for sexual maturation, highlighting its importance for breeding management strategies.

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