The structure of the excurrent ducts of the testis of the guinea-fowl (Numida meleagris)

Abstract

The epididymal region of the guinea-fowl was studied in sexually mature birds. The structure of the epididymal region was generally similar to that already described for the domestic fowl, turkey and Japanese quail. Well formed, intratesticular tubuli recti was seen connecting the seminiferous tubules with the rete testis. The latter consists of both intracapsular and extracapsular portions. Six main cell types were recognised in the region: the rete testis was lined by squamous cells, the proximal efferent ductules by ciliated and non-ciliated Type I cells, the distal efferent ductule by ciliated and non-ciliated Type II cells, and the connecting ductules, ductus epididymidis and ductus deferens were lined by non-ciliated Type III and basal cells. The cell classification adopted in this study is discussed.