Influence of Breed, Age and Morphometric Parameters on Sperm Quality in Local, Exotic and Crossbred Bulls Raised in Burkina Faso

Abstract

Background: Semen quality is an important determinant of reproductive performance and bull selection in cattle breeding programmes. However, the relationships between breed, age, morphometric characteristics and semen quality in local, exotic and crossbred bulls raised under comparable conditions in Burkina Faso remain insufficiently documented. This study evaluated the effects of breed, age, and morphometric parameters on sperm quality in local, exotic, and crossbred bulls raised in Burkina Faso. Semen from twelve bulls belonging to seven genetic groups was collected using an artificial vagina and then analysed according to standard sperm quality criteria. Biometric parameters (live weight, scrotal circumference, testicular volume, and height at the withers) were also measured to examine their relationships with semen characteristics. The results showed a significant effect of breed on all semen parameters (P < 0.05). Azawak bulls exhibited the highest individual motility (84.17 ± 6.07%) but the lowest ejaculate volume (2.56 ± 0.36 mL), while the Brown Swiss × Azawak and Tarentaise × Goudali crosses recorded the highest volumes. The highest sperm concentrations were observed in Montbéliard × Azawak, Tarentaise, and Azawak bulls. Live weight influenced ejaculate volume and individual motility, while age affected volume, bulk motility, and sperm mortality. Live weight, scrotal circumference, and testicular volume were strongly positively correlated (r = 0.76; P ≤ 0.001), while individual motility was positively correlated with bulk motility (r = 0.51; P ≤ 0.001). The results suggest that sperm quality depends on both genetic background and the morphometric characteristics of breeding stock. Incorporating these criteria into selection programmes could improve reproductive efficiency and genetic dissemination in tropical cattle.