Natural Mediterranean photoperiod does not affect the main parameters of boar-semen quality analysis

Abstract

Photoperiod is an important factor in the modulation of male reproduction in mammals. In boars, however, it is a controversial factor. The main aim of this work is to determine the precise effect of the natural, Mediterranean photoperiod on boar-semen quality. To do this, boars were housekept in strictly controlled temperature and humidity conditions, whereas light periods were also strictly adjusted to obtain a light-cycle in the farm. The work was performed over a period of one year, thus allowing for the determination of the putative yearly oscillations of boar-semen quality. Variations of the natural Mediterranean photoperiod do not induce substantial changes in overall semen-quality parameters like the percentages of viability, morphological abnormalities and total motility, the response to the osmotic resistance test and sperm motion characteristics. Only the motile-sperm subpopulation structure was significantly ( P < 0.05) changed depending on the variations of the natural photoperiod. Furthermore, the boar-semen ability for storage at 15–17 °C in a commercial extender was not modified by photoperiod changes. Our results indicate that the natural Mediterranean photoperiod does not induce strong changes in boar-semen characteristics, probably due to boar sperm having a strong capability of adaptation to the light variations of this photoperiod.