GROSS AND HISTOLOGICAL STUDY OF NASAL AND BRAIN OLFACTORY STRUCTURES IN THE GRASS CUTTER

The grasscutter is an important source of livelihood particularly in West Africa where there has been, of
late, increased capture and domestication of this animal for meat. This animal is also captured from the
wild, put in cages, and bred for research purposes. An understanding of the biology of this species,
particularly with regard to sensory cues, is important for its successful domestication, breeding, and
health management. Data are lacking on structure-function aspects of the olfactory system. In this
study, therefore, the macro and microstructure of the grasscutter nasal and brain olfactory components
are examined, both qualitatively and quantitatively.