Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the combination of vitamin E (Vit E) and selenium (Se) injection on semen quality, testes measures and some blood parameters of Ossimi rams. Fourteen mature healthy Ossimi rams were randomly divided into two equal groups (7 rams in each). The first group served as control (CG), while 2nd group served as treatment group (TG). Rams of the TG were treated twice weekly with 5 mg sodium selenite and 450 mg Vit E for 1 month. Semen quantity (semen volume, and concentration of the semen ejaculated) and quality (mass motility and percentage of live and dead cells) were recorded twice weekly. Blood samples collection, testes measurements (testis length (TL), breadth (TB); and scrotal circumference (SC)) using measuring tape and caliper were recorded. Sonar examination of the testes (mediastinum testes and tunica albugenia) and all accessory gland measurements were performed every 2 weeks. Semen quality and quantity were significantly affected by treatments: the ejaculate volume, mass activity and sperm concentration increased (p < 0.01) in treated rams in comparison with control ones. The percentages of dead and abnormal spermatozoa were reduced in the treated groups. Also ordinary testes measurements and sonar examination were mostly improved though the differences were not statistically significant. Pen libido test showed reduced reaction time for the first mount in treated rams. Serum testosterone, glutathione peroxidase and other blood parameters were elevated (p < 0.05) in treated group in comparison with the control one. The results of this experiment confirm that injections of the combination of Vit E and Se during the breeding season improved semen characteristics and the overall reproductive performance of Ossimi rams. (C) 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V.