Cow (Bovine)
* Ovaries:
* Shape: Oval, with a distinct cortex (outer layer) and medulla (inner layer).
* Number: Two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus.
* Ovulation: Ovulate from a single dominant follicle (Graafian follicle) per cycle.
* Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes):
* Structure: Relatively long and convoluted, with a fimbria (finger-like projections) that capture the ovulated egg.
* Function: Transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus and provide the site for fertilization.
* Uterus:
* Shape: Bicornuate (two horns that join to form a single body).
* Size: Relatively large, with a well-developed body and horns.
* Function: Houses the developing fetus, provides nourishment, and expels the fetus at birth.
* Cervix:
* Structure: Strong, muscular, and ring-shaped, with numerous folds and crypts.
* Function: Prevents bacterial contamination of the uterus, connects the uterus to the vagina, and dilates during parturition.
* Vagina:
* Structure: Muscular, lined with epithelial tissue.
* Function: Receives the penis during mating and serves as the birth canal.
* Vulva:
* Structure: External opening of the reproductive tract.
* Function: Allows for mating and facilitates urination.
Sow (Porcine)
* Ovaries:
* Shape: More elongated and ovoid compared to a cow's ovaries.
* Number: Two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus.
* Ovulation: Release multiple eggs from multiple follicles simultaneously.
* Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes):
* Structure: Shorter and less convoluted than a cow's oviducts.
* Function: Transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus and provide the site for fertilization.
* Uterus:
* Shape: Bicornuate (two horns that join to form a single body).
* Size: Smaller than a cow's uterus, with a less-developed body and more prominent horns.
* Function: Houses the developing fetuses, provides nourishment, and expels the fetuses at birth.
* Cervix:
* Structure: Comparatively short and less muscular than a cow's cervix, with a ring-like structure and fewer folds.
* Function: Prevents bacterial contamination of the uterus, connects the uterus to the vagina, and dilates during parturition.
* Vagina:
* Structure: Muscular, lined with epithelial tissue.
* Function: Receives the penis during mating and serves as the birth canal.
* Vulva:
* Structure: External opening of the reproductive tract.
* Function: Allows for mating and facilitates urination.
Key Differences:
* Ovulation: Cows typically release one egg per cycle, while sows release multiple eggs.
* Litter Size: Sows typically give birth to a large litter, while cows usually have single births.
* Uterus Size: A cow's uterus is generally larger than a sow's uterus.
* Cervix Structure: A cow's cervix is more complex and muscular than a sow's cervix.
These differences are related to the reproductive strategies of each species. Cows are typically raised for single-calf production, while sows are bred for multiple offspring. These differences in reproductive biology have implications for breeding, gestation, and parturition management in livestock.