Factors determining semen sample collection and semen quality parameters in African penguins Spheniscus demersus.

ABSTRACT: Our research focuses on semen collection from 42 African penguin males, grouped by age, habituation levels, and reproductive season timing. We assess behavioral and physiological responses to dorso-abdominal massage, evaluating species-specific seminal traits using conventional and advanced methods. Positive behavioral responses corresponded with successful semen collection. Young and human-reared males exhibited more favorable behaviors, and samples containing spermatozoa were more likely collected during the reproductive season. Age did not influence sample collectability or spermatozoa presence, though mature males produced higher semen volumes. Young males exhibited more sperm morphological abnormalities, especially outside the breeding season. Sperm concentration and number per ejacul

SUBMITTER: Borecki P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11484835 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature