Biometrical parameters of internal female genitalia in western Libyan Barbary sheep.

Abstract

Background: In Libya, the Barbary sheep plays an important role as a source of meat and wool. Improving animal production requires knowledge and understanding of the female reproductive system.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the biometry of the female genitalia of the Barbary sheep of Libya.

Methods: Ninety-seven apparently healthy, non-pregnant female Barbary sheep genitalia were collected immediately after slaughter from the slaughterhouse. Biometric parameters, including the length and width of the genital organs, were measured using a vernier caliper. The biometric data were studied in two groups: the estrous phase or active ovary group (n = 47) and the inactive ovary group (n = 50). The active ovary group was subdivided into follicular phase (n = 24) and luteal phase (n = 23) groups.

Results: The results showed that different dimensions of the genital organs between the ewes in the follicular andluteal phases of the estrous cycle were significantly affected (p < 0.05). In the inactive ovary group, no significant (p > 0.05) difference was observed in the mean length and width of both the ovaries and uterine horns, whereas the right and left oviduct lengths were significantly different (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Knowledge of the biometric parameters of female genitalia would help in the identification of various organ abnormalities, diagnosis of pregnancy, and infertility treatment of Barbary sheep in Libya.