<b>Biometrical parameters of internal female genitalia in western Libyan Barbary sheep</b>

Background: In Libya, the Barbary sheep plays an important role in livestock as a source of meat and wool. Improving animal production requires knowledge and understanding of the female reproductive system. Aim: The present study was aimed at evaluating the biometry of female genitalia of Barbary sheep of Libya. Methods: Ninety-seven apparently healthy, non-pregnant female Barbary sheep genitalia were collected immediately after slaughter from the abattoir. Biometric parameters, length and width of genital organs, were measured using a vernier caliper. The biometrics were studied in two groups: the estrous phase or active ovary group (n=47) and the inactive ovary group (n=50). The active ovary group was subdivided into follicular phase (n=24) and luteal phase (n=23) groups. Results: The results showed that different dimensions of genital organs between the ewes in the follicular and luteal phases of the estrous cycle were affected significantly (P < 0.05). In the inactive ovary group, no significant (P > 0.05) difference was observed in the mean length and width of both ovaries and uterine horns, whereas the right and left oviduct lengths were significantly different (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Knowledge regarding the biometrical parameter of female genitalia would help the identification of various organ abnormalities, diagnosis of pregnancy, and infertility treatment of Barbary sheep in Libya.