Effects of prostaglandin F2α treatment on semen characteristics of crossbred rams in the non-breeding season

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of administration of PGF2α on semen characteristics in crossbred rams in the non-breeding season. Twenty crossbred rams (Arkhar-Merino × Moghani and Arkhar-Merino × Ghezel) were randomly allocated into two equal groups. The experimental group received 7.5 mg IM of Estroplan (PGF2α analogue) and the control group received 1 ml of water soluble. A total number of eighteen ejaculates per ram were collected by artificial vagina twice a week 30 min following IM administration. Semen ejaculates were evaluated for volume, sperm concentration, total sperm output, mass and individual motility, methylene blue reduction time-test (MBRT), percentage of live sperm and sperm abnormality rates. The results of the current study shows that PGF2α treatment on crossbreed rams improved most semen characteristics including volume, sperm concentration, total sperm output and MBRT in comparison to control group (P < 0.01). However, other semen characteristics show similar values. We concluded that PGF2α actually improved semen output without any negative effect on sperm qualities.

Arkhar-Merino rams, non-breeding season, prostaglandin F2α, semen characteristics