Open AccessStriated muscles and scent glands associated with the vaginal tract of the rabbit
Author(s) -
MartínezGómez Margarita,
Lucio Rosa Angélica,
Carro Miguel,
Pacheco Pablo,
Hudson Robyn
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
the anatomical record
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1097-0185
pISSN - 0003-276X
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1097-0185(199704)247:4<486::aid-ar7>3.0.co;2-p
Subject(s) - preputial gland , reproductive tract , biology , anatomy , vagina , stimulation , rabbit (cipher) , female reproductive tract , uterus , endocrinology , statistics , mathematics
Background Despite the importance of the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in reproductive research, no comprehensive account of the anatomical organization of the female reproductive tract is presently available. Methods Based on gross dissection and on the electrical stimulation of striated muscles in 10 domestic female rabbits, it was the aim of this study to help fill this gap by describing the origin, insertion, and general action of muscles associated with the vaginal tract and with associated scent glands. Results Compared with the better‐studied rat or cat, the long vaginal tract of the rabbit is characterized by a well‐developed and complex musculature. The bulbospongiosus, ischiocavernosus, constrictor vestibuli, and constrictor vulvae muscles, poorly developed or absent in the female rat or cat, were particularly conspicuous. Scent glands, including the newly identified preputial glands, were also a distinctive feature. Conclusion These structures may represent specializations underlying the rapid copulation, rapid parturition, and well‐developed chemical communication characteristic of the reproductive efficiency of the rabbit. Anat. Rec. 247:486–495, 1997. © 1997 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.