Studies on ram semen preservation at ambient temperatures by flow dialysis techniques

Authors

  • I.S. Butswat Animal Production Programme, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, PMB 0248, Bauchi, Nigeria
  • O.A. Osinowo National Animal Production Research Institute, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
  • N.I. Dim Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria

Keywords:

Ram semen preservation, Flow dialysis technique

Abstract

The results of five experiments are reported which examined the effects of storage methods, volume of storage and length of storage on the survival of ram spermatozoa stored at ambient temperatures (22-28°C). Storage in McCartney bottles was compared with storage in a flow dialysis system. The motility of ram spermatozoa was better preserved under the flow dialysis method than in McCartney bottles over a storage period of four days (73 vs 66%) or 10 days (45.0 vs 31.4%). Storage in a continuous flow dialysis system yielded results similar to storage in a discontinuous flow dialysis system (44.8 vs 46.2%) over a period of eight days. Lower storage volume in dialysis bags (0.5 and 1.0 ml) was better for preserving the motility of spermatozoa.

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Issue

Volume 69 Number 2

Section

Research Papers