Poult. Sci.
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Poult Sci 2008. 87:790-792. doi:10.3382/ps.2007-00293
© 2008 Poultry Science Association
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PHYSIOLOGY, ENDOCRINOLOGY, AND REPRODUCTION: Research Notes

Turkey Sperm Reside in the Tubular Glands in the Urodeum Following Artificial Insemination1

M. R. Bakst2 and V. Akuffo

Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Building 200, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center-East, Powder Mill Road, Beltsville, MD 20705

2 Corresponding author: murray.bakst{at}ars.usda.gov

A turkey hen in egg production requires 48 h after the last insemination to maximize the number of sperm in the uterovaginal junction sperm-storage tubules. Where the sperm that continue to fill the oviductal sperm-storage sites during this 48-h period reside remains unknown. Histological sections of the juncture of the vagina with the urodeum, the central compartment of the cloaca, revealed deep tubular glands containing periodic acid-Schiff-positive secretory material. When examined 36 h after the last artificial insemination, sperm were observed in the lumen of the tubular glands associated with the urodeum. We suggest that sperm reside in the tubular glands within the urodeum and are released in association with the secretory activity of the tubular glands. These sperm then may ascend the vagina to continue to populate the sperm-storage tubules. Alternatively, the sperm in the tubular glands of the urodeum may be evidence of spermatorrhea and have no functional role in the fertilization process.

Key Words: avian • poultry • turkey • oviduct • cloaca

1 Mention of a trade name, proprietary product, or vendor does not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the product by the USDA or imply its approval to the exclusion of other suitable products or vendors.






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