Functional Changes in the Pregnant Camel with Special Reference to Foetal Growth

Abstract

In view of the lack of information regarding the prenatal development of the camel, the present investigation aimed at providing accurate standards for ageing camel foetuses. Data from 129 gravid uteri and five newly born calves were analysed. The corpora lutea of pregnancy persisted at nearly the same size and weight throughout the whole length of gestation, while regressing corpora lutea of previous pregnancies were noted during the first two-thirds of the gestation period. All pregnancies were located in the left uterine horn, although corpora lutea were seen in almost equal proportions in the left and right ovaries. Throughout pregnancy the weight of the empty uterus, foetal membranes and foetus increased steadily. The foetus almost doubled its weight during the last 45 days. The foetal fluids reached their lowest ebb in the tenth month followed by a sharp increase. The possible cause for this drop is discussed. Regression equations, with a fair degree of accuracy, were devised for predicting the developmental age of foetuses from morphological criteria.