Biometric and Morphometric Characteristics of Turkey Testes in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to conduct a macro-morphometric evaluation of the primary reproductive organs, specifically the testes, in Turkey tom. Methods: Twelve healthy, mature birds, with weights ranging from 5.450±0.12 kg to 7.570±0.51 kg, and ages between 28 weeks and 48 weeks, were sourced from the SMA Organic Agro Farm in Belgari and surrounding turkey farms in the Sherpur upazilla of Bogura district. Testicular measurements were performed along with their macroscopic description. Results: The testes were found on the sides of the body's midline, underneath the kidneys, and at the back of the lungs. At 28 weeks of age, the turkey tom's testes were measured. The left testis had a length of 3.74±22.38 cm, width of 2.08±2.63 cm, thickness of 1.87±5.93 cm, and weighed 9.50±12.01 gm, while the right testis measured 3.55±4.50 cm in length, 1.95±2.48 cm in width, 1.58±1.99 cm in thickness, and weighed 7.83±9.91 gm. The average live body weight at this stage was 5.670±7.17 kg. At 48 weeks old, the turkey tom weighed around 7.800±9.86 kg. The left testis measured about 4.15±5.26 cm in length, 2.40±9.29 cm in width, 1.92±5.92 cm in thickness, and weighed approximately 10.50±13.28 gm. On the other hand, the right testis was around 3.57±4.51 cm long, 2.04±2.58 cm wide, 1.72±2.18 cm thick, and weighed about 9.33±11.80 gm. Conclusions: Our study shows that as the Turkey tom grows up, its testes change in size and weight. We noticed that the left testis is consistently bigger and heavier than the right one. This suggests that the left testis gets larger as the turkey tom gets older. The reason for such differences could be explored in future research.