Reproductive tract and pouch anatomical variability across the reproductive phases in female common opossum (Didelphis marsupialis Linnaeus, 1758).

ABSTRACT: Colombia's diverse ecosystems are home to various marsupial species known for its distinctive reproductive traits. Limited research has explored the reproductive anatomy of Didelphis marsupialis, particularly regarding variations associated with reproductive phase. This study aimed to characterize the reproductive anatomy of female D. marsupialis and assess its relationship with reproductive phases. We analyzed 57 female opossum cadavers using dissection, histology, and biometry. Specimens were classified by life stage based on dental chronology and by reproductive phase-interestrus, proliferative, and diestrus-based on ovarian features. Among the specimens, 79% lacked pouch young, while 21% carried young with an average of 3 individuals (range = 1-7). Uterine dimensions varied with the re

SUBMITTER: Sepulveda-Vasquez A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12510574 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature