Ovary Function and Structure in Animals

Study Notes

The ovary is the primary female reproductive organ, responsible for both ova production (exocrine function) and hormone production (endocrine function).
The shape of the ovary can change depending on the reproductive cycle, animal species, and activity.
In camels, the ovary is oval and flattened during the anestrus (non-breeding) state and becomes mulberry-shaped during estrus (heat).
In sows, the ovary is disc-shaped during the non-breeding season and becomes mulberry-shaped due to the presence of multiple follicles or corpora lutea (CL).
The ovary's size can indicate its activity: an active ovary is typically larger due to the presence of follicles at various stages of development and CL.
In cows, the right ovary is often more active and larger than the left ovary, which can be attributed to the anatomical position and physiological factors.
A smooth, inactive ovary will be smaller due to the absence of structures on its surface.
However, ovarian tumors can significantly increase the size of the ovary.
Abnormal structures can be palpated on the ovary, including persistent CL and infundibulum.

The infundibulum is a funnel-shaped structure located near the ovaries.
It contains finger-like projections called fimbriae or pavilions, which capture the ovulated ova from the ovary and prevent them from descending into the abdominal cavity.