American Journal of Biomedical Science and Engineering 2015; 1(4): 39-44 Published online July 10, 2015 (http://www.aascit.org/journal/ajbse) Keywords Testes, Epididymis, Morphometry, Indicators, Reproduction Received: March 25, 2015 Revised: June 17, 2015 Accepted: June 18, 2015 Testicular and Epididymal Morphometric Characteristics: Viable Indicators of Reproductive Ability of Farm Animals NseAbasi NsikakAbasi Etim Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria Email address etimbobo@yahoo.com Citation NseAbasi NsikakAbasi Etim. Testicular and Epididymal Morphometric Characteristics: Viable Indicators of Reproductive Ability of Farm Animals. American Journal of Biomedical Science and Engineering. Vol. 1, No. 4, 2015, pp. 39-44. Abstract There is still some uncertainty with regard to the reliability of the genetic correlations between measurements of testes and epididymis and reproduction. The aim of this review is to examine testicular and epididymal morphometric characteristics as indicators of reproductive ability of farm animals. Morphometric analysis of the testes of any species or breed is necessary in assessing and estimating qualitative changes in testicular components and spermatogenic functions. The epididymis is an extremely connected structure which is closely attached to the dorsal part of the lateral surface of the testes. Its functions include storage, maturation and absorption of sperm cells. Testicular and epididymal development is influenced by several factors among which are species, breed, body weight, age, nutrition. A positive relationship exists between semen quality and testicular dimension, giving an indication that improvement in one would lead to improvement in the other. However, in a bid to increase and improve animal production, the testicular and epididymal morphometry is essential for a maximum and rational utilization of the breeding stock. 1. Introduction The testes are the primary organs of reproduction in the male because they produce male gametes (spermatozoa) and male sex hormones (androgen). The outer layer of the testes, the tunica albuginea is a thin white membrane of elastic connective tissue. As a duct leading from the testes, the epididymis serves to transport, concentrate, store and mature spermatozoa including the acquisition of progressive motility and fertility ability (Cornwall, 2009). According to Schoenian (2012) and Neary (2014) scrotal circumference (SC) measurement can be taken along with the palpation of the testicle area as part of breeding soundness evaluation. As reported by Leal et al. (2004) and Hassan et al. (2009) testicular parameters should suggest the level of sexual activity and semen production from the daily sperm production potential. Matos and Thomas (1992) posited that there is still some uncertainty with regard to the reliability of the genetic correlations between measurements of testes and epididymis and reproduction in farm animals. The aim of this review is to examine testicular and epididymis morphometric characteristics as indicators of reproductive ability of farm animals.