Successful semen collection and cryopreservation of Banteng semen (Bos javanicus) using an artificial vagina

Abstract

Abstract Gamete collection is feasible in Banteng (Bos javanicus) and is essential for conserving this species. The common practice of semen collection in wild animals is using the electroejaculation technique which is considered invasive with lower-quality results. This study aims to develop sperm collection further using an artificial vagina and to investigate the sperm motility of Banteng after being frozen-thawed. A Banteng bull kept in Taman Safari Indonesia was used for this study. Before semen collection, the bull is acclimatized to collection conditions. Semen collection is done once a month for six months. The semen was evaluated according to a method for bovine semen. Cryopreservation of semen was performed using an Andromed® extender, in 0.25 mL Ministraw®, and equilibrated at 4°C for 3 hours, followed by freezing in liquid nitrogen vapor. Quality testing was performed using the CASA IVOS II™. The result showed variations between batches, with the number of mountings 9.83±2.86(7-15) times, semen volume 8.42±1.42 (6-9) mL, straw produced 152±15.23 (130-172) straws, and total motility after thawing 44.28 ±12.14, (26.83-55.96). The quality of frozen semen of the later batch showed better results p<0.05. In conclusion, the collection of Banteng semen using an artificial vagina showed promising results with moderate quality.