Sperm quality and fertility of Murrah and Nili-Ravi bulls compared with indigenous buffalo bulls in Bangladesh

Abstract Fresh and frozen semen quality of Murrah and Nili-Ravi bulls in comparison with indigenous buffalo bulls was evaluated by Computer Assisted Sperm Analyzer (CASA). Semen was collected regularly once a week semen collection schedule from six (two/group) buffalo bulls. Fresh semen was evaluated for sperm concentration, motility, sperm kinematics, morphology and dose/ejaculate. Semen was diluted in a commercial extender (AndroMed), equilibrated, cryopreserved and finally evaluated for post-thaw sperm quality. On-station Artificial Insemination (AI) was carried out in naturally estrus indigenous buffalo cows at their second or third parity. Semen volume and concentration did not vary significantly (p>0.05). In fresh semen, total, static and slow motility differed significantly among the groups (p<0.01). After cryopreservation, total, progressive and static motility shows significant differences (p<0.01) among the groups followed by Indigenous, Murrah and Nili-Ravi. Indigenous buffalo bull has less morphological abnormalities than Murrah and Nili-Ravi bulls (p<0.01). In fresh semen, VAP, VSL, STR, LIN and BCF differ significantly among the groups (p<0.05) with higher values in indigenous bull followed by Nili-Ravi and Murrah. In frozen semen, STR, LIN, ALH and WOB differ significantly (p<0.01) among the groups. Fertility did not vary significantly among the groups following 60 days post-AI. Irrespective of differences in fresh and frozen semen quality, all bulls from the three groups are suitable for AI with a considerable conception rate at least in on-station conditions. More dose/ejaculate can be produced from Murrah bulls (316.53±131.65) followed by Nili-Ravi (297.33±95.79) and Indigenous bulls (294.64±152.14). Murrah and Nili-Ravi breed can be used as similar efficiency of the indigenous bull for AI to increase the productivity of indigenous buffalo of Bangladesh.