Rapid Methods for Estimating the Number of Spermatozoa in Bull Semen

Abstract

The concentration of spermatozoa in bull semen is exceedingly variable, both from ejaculate to ejaculate of the same bull and from bull to bull. Reliable estimates of the number of spermatozoa present in semen are of value in arriving at an indication of its quality, and, often are useful for research purposes, or for determining the rate at which semen should be diluted for routine artificial insemination. For maximum usefulness the estimate should not only be accurate, but should require a minimum of time.