Special features in the reproductive anatomy, physiology, and behavior of male Camels (Camelus dromedarius)

The peculiarities of anatomic and physiologic features of dromedary camels are elucidated in this review and compared with Bactrian, camels, and other species. Both dromedary and Bactrian camel scrotum varies in length from 10-20 cm and the testes are in the perineal region behind the thighs (like dogs) and weigh from 80-90 gm and length varies from 10-14 cm. Compared to ram and buck, camel epididymis has a higher weight (20-46 g) and has a unique structure called the intra-epithelial glands. Both dromedaries and Bactrian camels do not have seminal vesicles. Male camels have specialized secretory glands behind the ears known as poll glands that are bigger in the Bactrian camels compared to dromedary camels and similar glands are not seen in any of the other domestic species. Camels have a special reproductive behavior during the breeding season known as rut and include extrusion of the soft palate, copious froth from the mouth, gurgling sounds, splashing of urine, increased secretion from the poll glands and loss of appetite with considerable reduction in body weight. Such behaviors are not evidenced by any other domestic species including buffalo. Serum testosterone rises substantially in male camels during rut (2-42 ng/mL) compared to the non-rutting season (0.6-8 ng/mL) and the resultant increase in the size of the testes, number, and functionality of Leydig cells and secretion of poll glands. The serum thyroidal hormones also increase significantly during the rut season. It is concluded that male camels have some special anatomic and physiologic features of reproduction not observed in other domestic species.