The sperm longevity and freezability in the modified bhsv extender of thai pradu-hangdum chicken

Abstract

Pradu-hangdum is a distinct Thai native chicken. To conserve its purebred genetics, artificial insemination has been explored but this technique requires the selection of good quality semen. Hence, the objective of this study was to characterize the sperm of Pradu-hangdam and their longevity and freezability in the BHSV extender. Semen samples from 30 randomly selected roosters were collected and examined macroscopically and microscopically to identify semen characteristics. Results revealed that the Pradu-hangdam sperm had a spiral-shaped head, mid-piece and tail and the semen was white cream in color. The average sperm concentration was 5.24×109 ± 0.58 sperm/mL and the mean volume was 0.22 ± 0.03 mL. Mean total sperm motility was highest when stored in BHSV extender at 1 h at 85.20%, 56.00% at 24 h and 36.33% at 48 h, respectively. The longevity of stored sperm decreased significantly at 24 h and 48 h (P<0.05). The freezability of Pradu-hangdam semen also showed a significant decline from 81.45% to 57.02% sperm motility (P<0.05) but still within the acceptable range of sperm motility and kinetic parameters for insemination. In conclusion, these results indicate that semen stored for 24 h or frozen in BHSV extender can be available for use in actual practice.