MODEL FOR COOPERATION BETWEEN BOAR STUDS AND LABORATORIES FOR REPRODUCTION IN BOARS’ SEMEN QUALITY CONTROL

Abstract

In this article we presented procedures and results of boar semen quality control performed at the Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad” based on continuous cooperation with the farms’ centers for boar semen production. Th e data obtained by computer analysis (CASA-computer assisted sperm analysis), flow cytometry and cyto-morphologic examination were used for semen quality evaluation. Th e selected parameters were compared with the reproductive results in sows, such as: farrowing rate, number of piglets per litter, ratio of piglets born alive and stillborn piglets). Semen quality evaluation based on spermatozoa progressive motility, sperm concentration, morphological characteristics and chromatine structure damage were used to give recommendations for semen processing, dilution degree, prospective therapy of boars, or, at least, their culing. Analysis of semen was complemented with seasonal bacterial cultivation and controls in cases of sudden drop on semen quality. Separate fi les containing semen quality graphs and reproductive indicators for easier monitoring were created for every boar. Systematic semen analyses performed by the use of several modern methods, along with periodic bacteriological control, offer possibilities for reliable assessment of boars’ semen quality.