Spermatozoa production efficiency of rabbit bucks administered <i>Azanza garckeana</i> during heat stress conditions

Abstract

Abstract This study assesses the impacts of oral administration of Azanza garckeana ( Goron Tula ) syrup on semen quality, reproductive hormone profile, sperm production and storage efficiency in rabbit bucks during heat stress scenarios. Ripe Azanza garkeana fruits were procured, air-dried, weighed and processed into syrup by aqueous extraction 30%w/v for 12 hours. The gelatinous fluid obtained was referred to as Goron Tula syrup (GTS). Sixty mixed-breed rabbit bucks divided into four treatment groups receiving 0mL, 1mL, 2mL, and 3mL/kg BW GTS daily for 16 weeks. Semen samples were collected and analyzed using computer-assisted sperm analysis. At the end of the study, blood samples were collected and all animals slaughtered, and reproductive organs excised, weights and sperm reserves assessed. Results obtained showed that bucks administered 1mL/kg BW GTS exhibited significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher semen volume, progressive motility, curvilinear velocity, and semen concentration compared to other groups. Epidydimal sperm reserves of bucks on control and 3mL/kg BW GTS were significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher than other groups. The daily sperm production and sperm production efficiency were highest in bucks receiving 1mL/kg BW GTS, and these bucks had higher testicular sperm reserves than the others. In conclusion, a dose of 1mL/kg BW Azanza garkeana enhance reproductive performance of bucks under heat stress conditions.