Comparative Study on Characteristics of Semen Collected from Sahel Bucks using Slicing Swim up and Mincing Flushing Technique

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine morphometric dimensions of the testis and semen characteristics of Sahel bucks using slicing swim up (SST) and mincing flushing (MFT) technique. A total of 40 matured bucks slaughtered at Maiduguri Central Abattoir were selected for the study. The scrotal circumference was measured with tape prior to slaughter. The testis was collected within 30 min of slaughter and transported to the artificial insemination Laboratory University of Maiduguri on ice-pack. The weight and length of the testis, epididymal weight and length, and weights of tunica albuginea and testicular parenchyma were measured, while SST and MFT were used to harvest epididymal spermatozoa. There was no significant difference (p> 0.05) between the right and left testes. The SST method recorded motility of 83 ± 1.18 and MFT recorded 79.50 ± 1.01. For sperm concentration, SST was 82 ± 1.28 and MFT was 80 ± 1.27 respectively, there was significantly different (p<0.05) in motility while for concentration, was not significantly different (p>0.05). Live sperm of 87.48 ± 0.10 and 84.40 ± 0.88 was obtained using SST and MFT respectively. There were no significant differences between dead sperm recorded by SST and MFT (p>0.05). The pH of the semen 5.46 ± 0.01 using SST was not significantly different from 4.55 ± 0.2 using MFT. It was therefore concluded from this study that both methods are efficient for sperm recovery. The STT allows for better population of motile and live sperm than MFT. It is therefore recommended that further studies should be carried out to determine the fertilizing capacity through Artificial insemination.