The form and function of the testicular rete mirabile of marsupials

Abstract

1. 1. Lymphatic vessels were found in the testicular rete mirabile of Sarcophilus and Macropus. 2. 2. The larger species within each family have a greater number of testicular vessels. 3. 3. Habitually upright species have more retial vessels than quadrupeds. 4. 4. Larger species within each family have a lower body temperature. 5. 5. The form of the rete and cremaster muscle suggests a pumping function for this complex.