title: The effects of filiform appendage removal on semen collection in the ram.
abstract: The effects of removal of the filiform appendage and the type of collection cone used (polyethylene, rubber, Teflon) on the quantity and quality of semen collected from rams were examined. A total of 182 semen collections from six rams (three appendage-intact and three appendage-amputated rams) were utilized in the study. Observations of ejaculated semen distribution and drainage patterns indicated differences between appendage-intact and appendage-amputated rams. A larger volume of semen and a higher number of spermatozoa were collected from amputated than from intact rams (P<0.05). Amputation of the filiform appendage had no effect (P>0.05) on initial motility, thermal stress resistance, or morphology of spermatozoa, regardless of the type of collection cone used. Spermatozoa retained on collection cone surfaces were more sensitive to thermal stress (P<0.05). The morphology of spermatozoa was not affected by type of collection cone (P>0.05). Thus, filiform appendage removal increases ram semen collection efficiency while maintaining semen quality.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dairy University of Missouri Columbia, MO 65211 USA; Department of Animal Science University of Missouri Columbia, MO 65211 USA.
authors.forename: M G
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.forename: C P
authors.initials: CP
authors.lastname: Merilan
authors.forename: D H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Keisler