[Seasonal changes in spermatozoas and fertility of stallions in the tropics].

The research article explores the relationship between seasonal variations in stallion fertility and spermiological characteristics. From the observations, the fertility activity of stallions correlates with spermatozoa activity levels, negatively correlates with citric acid concentrations, and has very low correlations with other characteristics such as sperm production, gel substance volume, pH, and relevant chemical and biological activities.

Research context and aims

• This research aims to understand the relationship between variations in spermiological traits and stallion fertility on the basis of seasonal changes. The ultimate goal is to determine which characteristics have significant effects on stallion fertility to improve breeding outcomes.

Research approach and findings

• The study found a direct correlation between the activity of spermatozoa and stallion fertility. The higher the activity level of spermatozoa, the greater the fertility of stallions.
• A negative correlation was identified between stallion fertility and the concentration of citric acid. This means that increased levels of citric acid could potentially obstruct breeding success.
• In terms of other spermiological aspects, such as sperm production, volume of gel substance, pH value, polarographic activity (oxygen consumption measurement), ergothioneine concentration (natural antioxidant component), and hemolytic activity (disruption of red blood cells), the correlation coefficients with stallion fertility were very low.

Research implications

• The findings suggest that while these spermiological characteristics may affect the survivability and maintenance conditions of the sperm, they do not substantially impact its fertilizing ability.
• From a practical standpoint, these findings can be used to guide breeding practices and strategies in the future, particularly in the context of tropical climates where seasonality effects may be especially significant for stallions.