Effect of Gonadotrophin (Pergonal ®) on body size, reproductive characteristics and sperm reserves of mature Ouda rams

Abstract

Two groups of 4 healthy Ouda rams aged 2.0 to 2.6 years, weighing between 38.21 kg and 38.32 kg were assigned to either 49.50i.u (T2) or 99.00i.u (T3) Pergonal injections (Ferring Labs. USA) each divided into 3 doses and given for 3 consecutive days. Another group of 4 rams was given normal saline (1 ml) during the same period to serve as control (T1). All treatments were given to study the effect of the drug on body conformation and sperm reserves. All the treatments were given by intramuscular injections. The results showed significant differences (P<0.05) among the treatment groups in body conformation, testicular, epididymal and vas deferens weights. The results further showed that there were significant differences (P<0.05) among the treatment groups in testicular and extra testicular sperm reserves. High correlations were observed between body weight and conformation, weight of epididymal segments and testicular sperm reserves. The results of this study showed that apart from body weight, the body conformation, testes, epididymal and vas deferens weights and sperm reserves of Ouda rams would be improved at the level of 99.00i.u Pergonal and this level should be recommended for induction of spermatogenesis in Ouda rams.