Seasonal Variations in Semen Characteristics in Arabic Rams

The aim of this study was to evaluate the seasonal variations in semen characteristics in Arabic rams. 8 adult Arabic rams at the age of 2-3 years were used for this research. Semen was collected with electro ejaculator every 15 days for a period of 6 months (3 months of in breeding season and 3 months of non breeding season). Semen samples of these rams were subjected to the parameters including semen volume, sperm motility, sperm concentration, abnormal and live sperm percentage. Semen quality difference between breeding and non breeding seasons was significant. Semen volume, sperm motility, percent of live sperm, the percentage of abnormal sperm and sperm concentration determined in breeding and non breeding seasons had significant differences. Therefore, better progressive motility of sperm, sperm concentration, percent of live sperm and low percentage of abnormal sperm clearly explained high fertility potential of male in breeding season when compared with non breeding season. In conclusion, this study indicated that sexual performance of Arabic rams completely dependent on season.