Comparison of the physical characteristics of semen under different collection frequencies in the native and exotic cocks

Abstract

Twelve native cocks aged 35-40 weeks and twelve Harco cocks aged 38 weeks were ejaculated at three collection frequencies of 30 minutes, 60 minutes and 120 minutes consistently on Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays. Ejaculates were collected in the morning (5.00-10.00 a.m.) and in the evening (3.00-9.00 p.m.) at the various frequencies and evaluated for quality for a period of 4 weeks. Results indicated significant effects (P<0.05) of genotype, ejaculation frequency and ejaculation interval (weeks) on ejaculate volume, sperm motility and sperm vigour. Mean values for sperm concentration were significantly highest (P < 0.05) at 60 minutes collection frequency while the means for ejaculate volume, sperm motility and sperm vigour were highest in both genotypes under 120 minutes collection frequency and lowest under the 30 minutes frequency. Total sperm abnormalities as well as total live sperm were not significantly (P.<0.05) affected by genotype. Mean values for all the semen traits studied were significantly (P< 0.05) higher in the native than the exotic cocks at the various collection frequencies. The results apparently indicate that high ejaculation frequencies have negative effect on semen quality in the domestic fowl.

Key words: Collection frequency; Genotype, Semen Characteristic, native and exotic cock