Longevity of ram sperm in various diluents and at different dilution rates

Abstract

The effect of various diluents and different dilution rates on the maintenance of motility of ram sperm during storage at 4° C. was tested. Their efficiency was determined by half-life periods and total survival times of the sperm.A yolk-glycine-citrate diluent maintained sperm motility for a longer period than did yolk—fructose—phosphate, yolk-citrate, cow's milk and ewe's milk, with or without yolk. This diluent has the advantage that the sperm is clearly visible under the microscope, and no sedimentation of any component occurs.A modified IVT diluent prolonged the total life span of the sperm, but caused a faster motility decline in the first part of the storage period.