Evaluation of sperm kinetic parameters and performance of artificial insemination in turkey

Abstract

The present study was conducted to investigate semen characteristics, sperm kinetics, and the comparative fertility performance of natural mating (NM) versus artificial insemination (AI) in indigenous turkeys. A total of four toms were used for semen collection and evaluation. Among them, two toms were assigned for performing NM and AI in a group of 20 hens (10 hens per group). Semen ejaculates were collected from the toms during 36 to 40 weeks of age and assessed for physical characteristics. A portion of the semen samples was analyzed to evaluate sperm kinetics using Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA), while the remaining fresh, undiluted pooled semen was deposited into the hens' vaginas within 30 minutes of collection. The results indicated significant differences (P<0.05) in semen volume, sperm concentration, and most sperm kinetics (e.g., total motility, progressive motility, curvilinear velocity, average path velocity, straight-line velocity, straightness, linearity, wobble, amplitude of lateral head displacement, and beat cross frequency) among the toms. Notably, two toms exhibited standard and superior semen quality and sperm kinetics. Fertility rates were significantly higher (P<0.05) in hens inseminated via AI (95.92%) compared to those bred through NM (74.84%). This study concluded that semen characteristics and sperm kinetics varied among individual toms. Furthermore, AI using semen from high-performing toms enhanced fertility outcomes without any adverse effects. These findings suggest that identifying toms with superior  semen quality is critical for optimizing AI practices in turkey breeding.