Study of the anatomy and histology of Female reproductive system of the Asian snake-eyed skink, Ablepharus pannonicus (Sauria: Scincidae)

This study examines and contrasts the anatomy and histology of the female reproductive system in Ablepharus pannonicus, a member of the Scincidae family, across the spring and autumn seasons. Female specimens of A. pannonicus were collected from the northern slopes of the Tarazak-e Kasan village, located 89 km south of Kermanshah Province in west Iran. After being anesthetized, the specimens were dissected in the laboratory, and their reproductive systems were processed for tissue analysis. Using a rotary microtome, serial sections were prepared and subsequently stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin for detailed histological examination. The findings indicate that during the spring, the ovaries of A. pannonicus contain all stages of follicular development, including primitive, mature, and ovulation-ready follicles. In contrast, the autumn samples predominantly exhibit primitive or pre-ovulatory follicles, with a notable absence of mature follicles. These observations suggest a seasonal reproductive pattern in female A. pannonicus, characterized by significant morphological changes and heightened activity within the ovaries and genital tracts during spring. As the ambient temperature drops and the reproductive season concludes, there is an observable increase in gonadal volume and a concurrent decrease in gonadal activity, leading to an absence of sexual activity in the autumn. It is hypothesized that during this period, the animals engage in feeding and fat storage in preparation for hibernation.