Characteristics of diluted-stored and post-thawed semen of Hutsul stallions.

This study analyses the basic parameters of diluted-stored and post-thawed semen of Hutsul stallions to understand its suitability for cryopreservation and support the creation of a sperm bank for the preservation of this breed’s genetic material.

Objective of the Research

• The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the basic parameters of Hutsul stallion semen preserved using dilution and freezing, and reconsidered after thawing (post-thawed).

Importance and Context of the Research

• Freezing semen is a strategy used to reduce the risk of transmitting diseases, negate geographical limitations and support the implementation of genetic resource protection programs.
• Despite these advantages, the genetic material of Hutsul stallions is rarely stored in sperm banks, resulting in a lack of data about their semen. This includes knowledge about its suitability for freezing and the rate of sperm survival after thawing.

Methodology

• The investigation assessed parameters such as sperm motility (movement), vitality (capacity to live and develop), and morphology (form and structure) in Hutsul semen using a Computer Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) system.

Findings and Conclusions

• The study found no significant differences in sperm motility or morphology between the diluted-stored and post-thawed semen.
• Progressive motility, the ability of the sperm to move in a linear direction, was found to be higher in thawed semen. On the other hand, sperm vitality was observed to be higher in the diluted-stored semen.
• The results provided evidence that Hutsul horse semen is fit for cryopreservation. This supports the idea of creating a sperm bank for the preservation of this breed’s genetic material.

Implications of the Research

• The findings have significant implications for the protection and preservation of Hutsul horses, a breed whose genetic material is currently underrepresented in sperm banks.
• The validation of cryopreservation as a viable method for storing Hutsul semen can support the preservation of this breed and other rare or endangered breeds.