Evaluation of Ghezel- Merino, Merino- Moghani ram semen characteristics in breeding and non-breeding seasons

Semen collection and sperm evaluation are essential for successful artificial insemination. This study was conducted on 4 rams. Average age of rams was 2-3 years old (2 Ghezel Merino and 2 Merino Moghani). The aim of the present study was to evaluate seasonal variation in semen characteristics. After rams were trained to serve the artificial insemination، semen samples were collected weekly from august 2011 to June 2012. Semen ejaculates were evaluated for volume، color، non- microscopic mass motility، wave motion، pH، sperm progressive motility، percentage of live and dead sperm and concentration. Regarding to semen production، it was found that semen collecting time affected in all seminal characteristics during the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Differences in genetic effect were observed significantly on almost seminal characteristics (P<0. 05) except volume and pH during in breeding season. Merino Moghani performance was better than Ghezel Merinos during breeding season. Ghezel Merino ram only had reproductive activity during non-breeding season.