Morphology of the female and male reproductive system in the porcupine (Coendou spp.)

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Abstract

The morphology of wild animals has been the subject of extensive research, with a focus on the reproductive system and the pelvic region as important tools. The aim of this study was to identify, differentiate, and compare information regarding the anatomical and macroscopic morphological bases, as well as imaging findings, of the male and female reproductive systems of the porcupine (Coendou spp.), in comparison with other rodent species previously studied. The study used 5 male and 5 female porcupines, already deceased, from zoological gardens and parks. The specimens were subjected to dissection techniques for macroscopic analysis of the reproductive system, and imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT), were also conducted to obtain additional information about the reproductive anatomy. The results revealed unique characteristics of the reproductive system of the porcupine compared to other rodent species. Females exhibited a bicornuate uterus with two separate uterine horns, while males had intra-abdominal testes and a long, convoluted epididymis. The comparison with other rodent species showed similarities and differences in reproductive anatomy, and the results contribute to the understanding of the reproductive anatomy of the porcupine, providing valuable information for future studies on reproduction and reproductive behavior in this species. Furthermore, the study may aid in the development of reproductive management techniques and conservation efforts for the porcupine.
Keywords: antimicrobial; antioxidant; monogastric; phenolic compounds; ruminant.

Keywords: anatomy; dissection; histricognath; rodents.

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Published

2025-10-29

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ABONIZIO, Amanda Gabriela; FILADELPHO, André Luis; MACHADO, Vania Maria de Vasconcelos; OLIVEIRA, Elton Luís Ritir; MORAES, Alessandra Regina Dhom Pimentel de; CUEVA, Luis Orlando Baselly. Morphology of the female and male reproductive system in the porcupine (Coendou spp.). Brazilian Animal Science/ Ciência Animal Brasileira, Goiânia, v. 26, 2025. Disponível em: https://revistas.ufg.br/vet/article/view/82444. Acesso em: 5 dec. 2025.

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Vol. 26 (2025): Continuous publication

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