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The Influence of Season and Age on Specific Semen Traits and Reproductive Behavior in Carpatina Breed Bucks

Author

Listed:
  • Constantin Pascal

    (Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania)

  • Claudia Pânzaru

    (Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania)

  • Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu

    (Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania)

  • Vasile Maciuc

    (Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania)

  • Alexandru Marian Florea

    (Research and Development Station for Sheep and Goat Breeding, Popăuți-Botoșani, 710004 Botoșani, Romania)

  • Ionică Nechifor

    (Research and Development Station for Sheep and Goat Breeding, Popăuți-Botoșani, 710004 Botoșani, Romania)

Abstract

This study explores how age and seasonal changes impact semen characteristics and reproductive behavior in Carpatina breed bucks. Males were divided into three age groups: young (14–23 months; L14), adult (3–4 years; L34), and older (5–6 years; L56). Scrotal biometry was determined using a measuring tape, and testicular volume was evaluated by fully submerging the testes in a water-filled container and measuring the displaced water. Semen analysis was conducted on samples collected each season, with volume, color, and acidity being assessed. The evaluation of specific semen characteristics (motility, sperm concentration, normal spermatozoa) was conducted using a Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) system, and testosterone levels were measured in blood samples collected at the start of each season. Behavior and sexual reflexes were evaluated based on mating desire and the bucks’ reaction to the presence of females. Key findings indicate that testicular volume varies significantly with both age and season, with the most pronounced differences between younger bucks and the older groups, especially during autumn. Semen quality parameters such as ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, and motility also showed seasonal fluctuations, with younger bucks having lower sperm concentrations. Testosterone levels were observed to increase with age, peaking in autumn. Behavioral observations revealed that younger bucks exhibited less intense sexual activity, although this improved during autumn. Additionally, a significant correlation was identified between body weight and testicular volume in adult bucks (R = 0.942, p -value = 0.016 for L34; R = 0.797, p -value = 0.022 for L56), suggesting that age plays a crucial role in reproductive potential. Our findings highlight that, while bucks are capable of year-round reproduction, autumn provides optimal conditions for semen quality and reproductive performance. This research has valuable implications for optimizing breeding programs, contributing to genetic advancement, and improving management strategies in goat farming, especially within temperate continental climates.

Suggested Citation

  • Constantin Pascal & Claudia Pânzaru & Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu & Vasile Maciuc & Alexandru Marian Florea & Ionică Nechifor, 2024. "The Influence of Season and Age on Specific Semen Traits and Reproductive Behavior in Carpatina Breed Bucks," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 14(11), pages 1-19, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jagris:v:14:y:2024:i:11:p:2092-:d:1525136
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Ionică Nechifor & Marian Alexandru Florea & Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu & Constantin Pascal, 2022. "Influence of Supplemental Feeding on Body Condition Score and Reproductive Performance Dynamics in Botosani Karakul Sheep," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 12(12), pages 1-16, November.
    2. M. Koyuncu & S. Kara Uzun & S. Ozis & S. Duru, 2005. "Development of testicular dimensions and size, and their relationship to age and body weight in growing Kivircik (Western Thrace) ram lambs," Czech Journal of Animal Science, Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 50(6), pages 243-248.
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