University of Zagreb University Computing Centre (SRCE) · 2006 · 40 citations · 21 references
Open access
Veterinary MedicineAnimal SciencesNutritional SciencesAnimal NutritionFertilitySemen EvaluationNutritional Effects On ReproductionSemen AnalysisSperm Concentration AssessmentSperm Concentration EstimationSperm Motility AssessmentSperm Viability AssessmentDietary Protein SupplementationMale Reproductive PerformanceNutritional Effects On FertilityRam Sperm Viability AssessmentSoybean Meal InclusionSoybean Meal SupplementationSperm Function AssessmentSperm Morphometrics
The aim of this investigation was to assess the effect of improved diet above maintenance requirement on reproductive parameters, including testicular size, semen volume, sperm concentration and viability. Twelve Bakhtiary rams were allocated to two groups of six animals and were fed during a 12-week experiment period with different diets which were designed to supply maintenance and above maintenance requirements (dry matter, energy and protein). Dry matter (DM), barley and soybean meal for control and treatment groups were 1.5 kg, 8%, 0% and 2.1 kg, 25%, 17%, respectively. Semen was collected by artificial vagina every other week. Scrotal circumference, sperm concentration and total number of spermatozoa per ejaculate significantly increased in treatment group (P 0.05). Likewise, there was a significant correlation between scrotal circumference and sperm production in treatment group (P<0.01, r = 0.96). It was concluded that improved dietary intake with higher energy and protein supplementation in Bakhtiary rams can improve their reproductive performance during the breeding season.
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