Evaluation of Semen Characteristics and the Impact of Storage Time in Dong Tao and Ho Indigenous Chickens

Semen Traits and Storage Effects in Dong Tao and Ho Chickens

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the semen quality of 2 indigenous Vietnamese chicken breeds, Dong Tao and Ho, and to assess their reproductive potential for breeding and conservation programs. Semen samples were collected from 10 roosters of each breed and analyzed for macroscopic and microscopic traits. The results indicated that both breeds exhibited semen quality within acceptable physiological ranges. Mean semen volume was 0.47 mL in Dong Tao and 0.48 mL in Ho roosters; pH values were 7.47 and 7.42, respectively. Semen color scores (2.39 vs. 2.35), sperm concentrations (2.11 vs. 1.92 × 109/mL), and mass activity scores (3.79 vs. 3.83) showed no significant differences between breeds. Sperm motility decreased over time in both groups. However, Ho roosters maintained significantly higher motility at 5 h (0.75) compared to Dong Tao (0.68). In contrast, morphological abnormality rates remained relatively stable across storage durations, ranging from 30.18% to 30.72% in Dong Tao and 30.26% to 29.14% in Ho roosters. These findings demonstrate the overall semen viability of both breeds under short-term storage conditions and highlight the better storage resilience of Ho rooster semen, offering valuable insights for artificial insemination and genetic preservation strategies.