Dian Masyitha, Muslim Akmal, Sri Wahyuni, Gholib Gholib
Understanding age-related testicular maturation in turkeys is essential, as information on reproductive development under tropical conditions remains limited and may affect effective breeding management. This study investigated age-related testicular development in turkeys reared in a tropical environment using morphometric and histomorphometric approaches. Thirty male turkeys were divided into five age groups (8, 16, 24, 32, and 40 weeks; n = 6 per group). We examined testes for macroscopic parameters including weight, length, and circumference, while histomorphometric analysis evaluated seminiferous tubule diameter, epithelial height, lumen diameter, intertubular distance, and germ-cell composition. Testicular weight, size, and gonadosomatic index (GSI) increased significantly with advancing age (p < 0.01), with the most rapid growth observed between 24 and 40 weeks. The left testis was consistently heavier than the right across all ages, reflecting normal avian testicular asymmetry. Histomorphometric findings demonstrated progressive enlargement of seminiferous tubules, thickening of the germinal epithelium, and a reduction in interstitial tissue with age. Early age groups (8–16 weeks) were characterized by seminiferous tubules predominantly containing spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes, whereas turkeys aged 32–40 weeks displayed a complete spermatogenic series with abundant spermatids and luminal spermatozoa, indicating sexual maturity. These results demonstrate that testicular maturation in turkeys is characterized by coordinated increases in organ size, seminiferous tubule expansion, and enhanced spermatogenic activity. This study provides essential baseline data on testicular development in turkeys under tropical conditions and supports improved reproductive management and breeding strategies. Copyright: 2026 by the authors.
Graduate School of Mathematics and Applied Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Histology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Anatomy Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Physiology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, 23111, Indonesia
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