Morphology of the male accessory organs of reproduction of immature fallow deer (Dama dama L.) with particular reference to puberty and antler development.

Abstract

The accessory organs of reproduction of male fallow deer are fully active for the first time during the animal's second rut, at 16 months of age. Antler pedicles develop at about 9 months, at the same time as the seminiferous tubules show a marked increase in diameter. The accessory organs show an increase in size at approximately 14 months of age when the deer weigh about 45 kg and maturation of the first pair of antlers is occurring. Puberty commences at about 9 months, pauses during the period of active antler growth and recommences at about 14 months, culminating with the appearance of spermatozoa at 16 months of age. Androgenesis precedes spermatogenesis.