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Semen Analysis

AI Collection
Kilharken, Larry, Lee Morris & helper, Camden, Jan 02

In January 2002 Kilharken was tested for AI(frozen semen) suitability at the University of Sydney's Veterinary Centre at Camden. The tests were undertaken by Lee Morris BVSc DipACT MRCVS, Senior Registrar in Equine Reproduction.

She reported the following results in a letter dated 24/2/2002:
 
"Report for freezing of semen from KILHARKEN

A total gel free volume of 50ml semen was collected and extended at a ratio of 1:1(v/v) in a skim milk - glucose extender. The total motility of the fresh semen was 80% and 90% of those were progressive (80/90%)...... The spermatozoa were thawed at 37&degC for 30s and the post thaw motility was 50/80%.

...The results of morphological assessment of the spermatozoa are summarised below:

Sperm Characteristic
After equilibration
(%sperm)
Post thaw
(% sperm)
Normal
80
90
Head defect
1
3
Loose Head
0
0
Midpiece defect/TD>
7
4
Proximal droplet/TD>
0
0
Distal Droplet/TD>
1
0
Distal midpiece reflex/TD>
4
0
Bent tail/TD>
7
3
These results show that the process of freezing and thawing has a negligible effect on the gross morphology of the spermatozoa. The insignificant proportion of bent tails and midpiece defects indicates that his spermatozoa respond well to freezing and thawing..."