Histological Description of the Testis, Epididymis and Ductus Deferens of the Northern Great Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus giganteus)

Abstract

The Tunica albuginea surrounding the testis of the great grey kangaroo was thick and there were large number of Leydig cells present in between the seminiferous tubules. These findings were the striking features among other histological findings of an 18 year old kangaroo which was kept in captivity in Los Angeles zoo all his life. Eighteen year old great grey kangaroo testes, epididymis and ductus deferens were collected and processed using standard histologic techniques. The animal was kept all his life in captivity in LA zoo. Two different stains were used to differentiate tissues and cells. Histological characteristics of all organs under study were found to be similar to other animal species of younger age with few striking exceptions. The Tunica albuginea was very thick and large number of Leydig cells was present between the seminiferous tubules. Animals in captivity with excellent care and veterinary services will continue to be fertile and actively producing sperms when compared to animals of the same age live in the wild.