What does it means!
Lets first review the importance of the different anatomical sections of the male reproductive tract.
- Testis - The source of sperm and testosterone. Must be at a temperature below core body temperature for sperm to be produced.
- Epididymis - A finishing school in which sperm are matured and especially stored in the tail of the epididymis.
- Accessory Glands - The source of the fluid that is added to sperm during ejaculation. Factors in this fluid aid in sperm survival in the female reproductive tract and ability to fertilize the oocyte.
- Penis - The delivery system to deposit sperm in the mare or an artificial vagina.
It is very common for students and even equine professional to ask why they need to know and understand anatomy. After all it sometimes seems like a foreign language. There is however a rationale behind learning anatomical terms and their meaning.
- It is valuable to be able to converse with your veterinarian using language that is precise and does not contain terms that are vague. This includes you describing a problem with your horse or when the veterinarian is explaining a diagnosis to you.
- A normal reproductive tract is essential to fertility. Injuries or genetic defects in any one of the stallions anatomical parts can lead to infertility. For example damage to the testis will impair sperm production. Damage to the penis will prevent the stallion from ejaculating into the mare. During the breeding soundness exam you will be looking for normal anatomy of the stallion.
Now move on to the breeding soundness exam.
