Abstract
In the present study, the authors analysed the effects of seasonal variations on the scrotal circumference and semen characteristics in two ram breeds in Saudi Arabia, namely Naimi and Najdi. Five rams of each breed were used in this experiment. Scrotal circumference and semen characteristics were evaluated in each ram twice a month throughout the year. Significant differences were observed in the scrotal circumference between various seasons. The largest production of semen was recorded mainly in spring, whereas the lowest semen volume was produced in summer. The pH of the semen was slightly alkaline and significantly lower in autumn than in spring. Furthermore, the highest value of the total number of sperm per ejaculate was observed in spring for both breeds. The results indicated that mass motility increased significantly in autumn compared with winter, spring, and summer. Progressive motility was significantly lower during the months of summer and spring. However, no significant differences were recorded between autumn and winter. Hence, the presence of significant seasonal variations in semen quantity and quality of Naimi and Najdi rams suggests the viability of increased utilization of rams in spring and autumn for semen collection and reproductive practices. Keywords: Mass motility, progressive motility, semen volume, sperm concentration
Highlights
A wide variety of sheep breeds exists owing to geographical isolation, cross breeding, selection, and genetic drift
A study on the effect of seasons on the reproductive ability of rams raised in United Arab Emirates (UAE) suggested that maximum sexual activity in otherwise continuously breeding rams, observed during winter, was reflected in high sperm concentration (Ibrahim, 1997)
The rams were studied at the animal production farm, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University (KSU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, according to the principles and guidelines approved by the Research Ethics Committee of KSU
Summary
A wide variety of sheep breeds exists owing to geographical isolation, cross breeding, selection, and genetic drift. The reproductive activity of sheep and the effect of season on the quality of semen have been studied by many researchers. A study on the effect of seasons on the reproductive ability of rams raised in United Arab Emirates (UAE) suggested that maximum sexual activity in otherwise continuously breeding rams, observed during winter, was reflected in high sperm concentration (Ibrahim, 1997).
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