Evaluation of some reproductive parameters in the indigenous boar of Zimbabwe

Abstract

A number of reproductive parameters were evaluated in 12 adult indigenous boars. The seminal vesicles, prostate and bulbourethral glands had masses of 184,41 ± 18,00 g, 16,69 ± 2,42 g and 142,05 ± 16,12 g, respectively, while the penile length measured 45,71 ± 4,49 cm. The testes and epididymides had masses of 211,82 ± 26,74 g and 108,81 ± 11,49 g. The number of sperm averaged 2,78 ± 0,59 x 10⁹ in the testes and 11,76 ± 2,11 x 10⁹ in the epididymides. The daily sperm production per gram (DSPG) of testicular tissue and the daily sperm production rate (DSP) were calculated to be 2,98 ± 0,31 x 10⁶ and 0,62 ± 0,14 x 10⁹ spermatozoa, respectively. The serum level of testosterone measured 11,98 ± 0,81 ng/ml. These values suggest a reduced reproductive capacity in these animals. However, appropriate selection techniques may be evolved to upgrade this indigenous stock while nutrition and management may be improved to increase body size, and hence, gonadal development.