Effect of Azolla Supplementation on Semen Quality, Haematology and Rumen Metabolites in Barbari Bucks

A study was undertaken to assess the effect of supplementation of fresh azolla on semen quality, haematology and rumen metabolites in Barbari bucks under intensive management system. Ten bucks (age 2–3 years) were randomly divided into control (n=5) and treatment (n=5) groups. Both the groups were fed concentrate pellet at the rate of 400 g daily and ad libitum bengal gram straw. In the treated group fresh green azolla was supplemented at the rate of 100 g/buck daily for 120 days. Semen samples from each buck were collected with the help of artificial vagina after 60 days of experimental feeding. Blood and rumen samples from each buck were collected after 90 days of experimental feeding. Supplementation of azolla significantly (P<0.05) improved the reaction time from 37.33 sec in control to 24.13 sec in treatment group. Progressive motility (%) also improved from 54.33 in control to 81.33 in treatment group. Semen volume, percent live, dead and abnormal spermatozoa as well as blood characters and rumen metabolites did not differ in control and treatment groups. It was concluded that supplementation of fresh azolla improved reaction time and progressive motility of spermatozoa in Barbari bucks without affecting haematology and rumen metabolites.