Testicular morphometry and epididymal sperm qualities of donkeys in Bolgatanga, Ghana

Abstract

The application of artificial insemination in donkeys must be based on a knowledge of breeding soundness, while other reproductive physiology of the donkey including testicular morphometric parameters and sperm production is scanty in literature. This study sought to assess the testicular morphometry and epididymal sperm qualities of donkeys in Bolgatanga and to determine the effect of season on spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm parameters. Twelve sexually mature donkeys, aging 10 to 15 years old, had their testes and epididymis surgically harvested immediately after slaughter, semen parameters were assessed thereafter and testicular volume calculated. Epididymal sperm was harvested by retrograde flushing technique and sperm parameters were obtained. This study showed no significant difference (p-value >0.05) between the length, width and volume of the left and right testes, and that the rainy season showed greater values in seminiferous tubule diameter, epithelial height, and luminal diameter. The study revealed that donkeys showed a greater level of spermatogenesis in the rainy season compared to the dry season, indicating that donkeys are seasonal breeders.