PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT OF RADIO-ULNAR AND TIBIO-FIBULAR BONES IN RED SOKOTO GOAT (CAPRA HIRCUS): A HISTOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Ability of ruminate neonates to run with the herd hours after birth necessitated this study. This study, therefore, was carried out to evaluate morphometry of radio-ulnar and tibio-fibular bones during prenatal period in Red Sokoto goat (RSG) and determined the specific gestation days of primary and secondary ossifications. A total of 45 abbatoir-sourced foetal samples obtained from slaughter houses were used for the study. The foetuses were categorized into eight age groups, based on established aging formulae. The radio-ulnar and tibio-fibular bones of foetuses were collected and prepared for histological examination. Results showed that primary ossification centre of the diaphysis was established by gestation day (GD) 54 in RSG fetuses with formation of tiny bone spicules in the diaphysis. This ossification spread towards the epiphysis by GD 57 while the epiphysis remained quiescent. Secondary ossification centre in the epiphysis was observed by GD 65 with numerous cartilage canals which coalesced into larger ones by GD 75, all associated with osteogenic tissues. Well advanced secondary ossification centre was observed by GD 90. Well-developed epiphyseal
cartilage which separated well-formed and advanced diaphyseal and epiphyseal bones was observed at GD 105. Complete ossification of the diaphysis and epiphysis, leaving an epiphyseal plate, was observed at GD 124.