Semen collection and evaluation in captive Malaysian estuarine crocodile

Wan Jaafar, Wan Nor Fitri (2015) Semen collection and evaluation in captive Malaysian estuarine crocodile. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

Text fpv 2015 47.pdf Download (1MB)

Abstract

Study on semen collection and evaluation in estuarine crocodile is limited due to lack of knowledge on the collection method. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the crocodile semen parameters such as volume, pH, motility, concentration and morphology. Sperm morphometry and changes of semen motility over time were also conducted. Four matured male crocodiles (314.25 ± 9.70 cm) housed in the same enclosure were physically restrained and digitally manipulated to retrieve the semen. Collection was done in January 2015 during early crocodile mating season. Results showed were volume, 0.55 ± 0.12 ml wave pattern, 2.75 ± 0.48, pH, 7.13 ± 0.24, sperm concentration, 396.88 ± 43.41 x 106 sperm/ml, general motility, 45 ± 17.56%, forward movement, 37.13 ± 5.12%, rotating 9.56 ± 5.38% and vibrating, 53.13 ± 1.92%. Three types of semen extender were used; 0.01M phosphate buffer saline (PBS), 0.01M PBS with 0.07M fructose and 0.01M PBS with 5% egg yolk. Total length of normal sperm from acrosome to tail measured 88.96 ± 0.52μm. Electron microscopy separates flagellum into midpiece, principal piece and end piece. Most significant sperm abnormalities that require further investigation is the cytoplasmic droplets counted 28.25 ± 2.29%. Among the extenders, PBS with egg yolk has the best properties for preserving the motility of sperm stored at 4°C and had survived for 11 days. In conclusion, this is the first reported study on semen collection and evaluation in captive Malaysian estuarine crocodile and provides opportunity for further study on assisted reproductive technology such as artificial insemination (AI) in this species.

Item Type:	Project Paper
Faculty:	Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Depositing User:	Ms Siti Mariam Giman
Date Deposited:	16 Nov 2022 03:44
Last Modified:	16 Nov 2022 03:44
URI:	http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/347

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