Working Document Series Open Access 2010 RUF-34889

Characterization of semen from the unimproved South African indigenous goats

J.P. GreylingB. MatshabaM. MphaphathiT.L. NedambaleC. NemesC. NgwaneL.M. SchwalbachÉ. Váradi

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Abstract

128 words

In this study, we characterised semen of the unimproved South African (SA) indigenous goat with an aim of determining the potential of using modern techniques such as artificial insemination to multiply it. The SA unimproved goat is hardy and adaptable to the local harsh environment and is now attracting attention of commercial farmers. The average percentages of normal and live sperms (79% and 76.3%, respectively) for this goat fell within the range of good quality sperms. Morphological evaluations of the sperms also revealed that these goats had normal sperms, with abnormalities falling within the normal range for good quality sperms. Similarly sperm motility was also normal. From this study we conclude that the unimproved SA indigenous goat has potential to be multiplied and commercially produced using modern techniques.

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