Relationship between Serum Lipid Profile, Testicular Dimensions and Sperm Reserve in Yankasa Sheep

Abstract

The relationship between serum lipid profile, testicular dimensions and sperm reserve in Yankasa rams was evaluated. Twenty seven (27) Yankasa rams of between 1.5 to 2 years of age were used for the study. Serum parameters evaluated include, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride. Testicular parameters measured include, weight, volume, length and circumference. Pearson's coefficients of correlation among various parameters were estimated using SPSS (2010). The result indicate a significantly negative correlation between total cholesterol and sperm reserve (-0.90, P<0.01). Similarly, the relationship between sperm reserve and low density lipoprotein cholesterol is negative and significant (-0.92, P<0.01). Positive but non-significant correlation was observed between sperm reserve and high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Findings of this research suggest that measures taken to decrease serum levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol can improve reproductive performance of Yankasa rams.