Structural Changes in the Ovaries and Oviducts of the Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) Based on Developmental Stage and Reproductive Cycle

Abstract This report represents an investigation of the anatomical and histopathological structures associated with the female reproductive organs of Iguana iguana. The gross anatomy and histology of the ovary and oviduct of I. iguana were compared between immature and mature stages, and at different times in the estrous cycle. Although the structure of the reproductive organs of I. iguana was similar to historic descriptions, there were significant morphologic differences depending on the growth stage and phase of the reproductive cycle. Our results provide basic information related to the occurrence of ovarian and oviductal disease, which can be used when interpreting pathologic changes of the reproductive tract of female I. iguana.