Effects of Semen Extenders and Cryoprotectants on Post-hatch Performance of Horasi Chicks Following Semen Cryopreservation

Abstract

Aims: This study evaluated the effects of different semen extender-cryoprotectant combinations on post-hatch growth performance, and survival of chicks produced from cryopreserved semen of the Horasi chicken ecotype. Study Design:  Completely randomized design. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Laboratory (semen laboratory), National Artificial Insemination Centre (NAIC), between November 2025 and February 2026. Methodology: Semen was collected from a total of 20 Horasi cockerels, and cryopreserved using combination of two extenders: Beltsville Poultry Semen Extender (BPSE) and CARI, and two cryoprotectants: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethyl formamide (DMF). Hens were inseminated twice weekly using 0.5mL of frozen, and fresh semen (control). Eggs were collected, examined, incubated, and hatched chicks were reared for 16 weeks while assessed for growth and survival rates. Results: Results showed that chicks from semen cryopreserved with BPSE and DMSO combination exhibited highest growth performance, and survival rates compared to chicks produced from semen cryopreserved with other combinations of extender and cryoprotectant. Lowest growth performance and survival rates were observed in chicks from semen cryopreserved with a combination of CARI and DMF. Across treatments, male chicks presented higher growth rates than females, while females exhibited higher survival rates than males. Conclusion: These findings conclude that the combination of BPSE and DMSO provides effective protection during rooster semen cryopreservation producing offsprings with better growth performance and survivability comparable to those derived from fresh semen. This protocol may therefore represent a promising strategy for semen cryopreservation and long-term genetic conservation of indigenous chicken resources such as the Horasi ecotype.