Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies can be an important part of programs directed for maintenance and protection of genetic variability. The objective of this study was to develop methods for liquid storage and cryopreservation of semen capercaillie and black grouse semen. Our results provide for the first time evidence for successful short-term storage and cryopreservation of capercaillie and black grouse semen using criteria of sperm motility characteristics as quality indices. Sperm motility could be protected up to 48 h liquid storage; however, 24-h storage should be preferable. Cryopreservation secured 40–60% post-thaw motility (as compared with control), both for freshly collected and 24-h-stored semen. In conclusion, a procedure for short-term and cryopreservation of capercaillie and black grouse semen are now available. These assisted reproductive technologies can be implemented into captive breeding programs for these species.
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Acknowledgments
This study was supported by Ministry of Science and Higher Education grant R12 064 03 and funds appropriated to the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research. We thank Mr. Dariusz Kaminski and Mr. Zdzisław Nalewajek from the Wildlife Park Kadzidłowo for their excellent technical assistance.
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Ciereszko, A., Dietrich, G.J., Liszewska, E. et al. Short-term storage and cryopreservation of black grouse Tetrao tetrix and capercaillie T. urogallus semen. Eur J Wildl Res 57, 383–388 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10344-010-0436-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10344-010-0436-3