Evaluation of Japanese Quail Egg-Yolk Extender in Cryopreservation of Cockerel Semen

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of quail egg yolk extenders in the cryopreservation of cockerel semen. Ten Venda cockerels were chosen randomly and semen was collected twice a week with a two-day rest period using an abdominal massage technique. Immediately following semen collection, semen samples were evaluated for microscopic parameters (sperm cell motility, viability, morphology, and abnormalities) as well as macroscopic parameters (sperm cell concentration, semen volume, color, and pH). Afterward, the semen samples were divided into two fractions: One was diluted with Japanese quail egg-yolk extenders at different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20%) and one was diluted with chicken egg-yolk (20%). Semen samples were evaluated for sperm cell motility using CASA prior to freezing in a programmable freezer. Immediately following freezing, semen samples were stored at 196°C until thawing. Semen samples were thawed and evaluated for sperm cell motility. The data were analyzed using the general linear model of statistical analysis software 9.4. Both microscopic and macroscopic semen parameters evaluated and used for cryopreservation of Venda cockerels' semen were normal and acceptable. The 10% Japanese quail egg-yolk extender resulted in significantly higher total motility (39.7±2.6%) when compared with the 0, 5, 15, and 20% concentrations, which resulted in 9.0±2.7, 22.9±2.7, 22.1±2.7 and 32.1±2.7% total motility, respectively. Moreover, a 10% Japanese quail egg-yolk extender resulted in total motility of 39.7±2.6%, which was significantly higher than the total motility of 31.7±2.6% obtained when the recommended 20% chicken quail egg-yolk extender used. In conclusion, 10% of Japanese quail egg yolk is a suitable concentration that can be used to cryopreserve cockerel semen.