Semen Analysis

Flashcards created from lecture notes on semen analysis for animal reproduction, covering key terms and definitions.

Semen Evaluation

Assessment of semen for artificial insemination, breeding soundness exams, pre-purchase exams, cryopreservation, and collection mechanisms.

Concentration

The number of sperm per milliliter of semen, which can be measured in various ways.

Motility

The percentage of sperm that are in motion; lower than 40% is usually not considered suitable.

Morphology

The study of the shape and structure of sperm, with standards varying by species.

Acrosome Reaction

The process that allows sperm to penetrate the egg, occurring after capacitation.

Available Sperm Pool

The number of sperm available for insemination, calculated by concentration, volume, motility, and morphology.

CASA

Computer Assisted Semen Analyzer, used to assess semen parameters including concentration and motility.

Eosin Stain

A differential stain used to distinguish live sperm from dead sperm based on membrane integrity.

Forward Progression

A measure of the forward motion of motile sperm, scored on a five-point scale.

Hemocytomer

An older method of measuring sperm concentration.

Densimeter

An instrument used to measure the density of a semen sample and calculate concentration.

Electronic Particle Counter

The most accurate method for determining sperm concentration by counting individual sperm.

Viability

The percentage of live, normal sperm, taking into account both motility and morphology.

Cryopreservation

The process of freezing and storing semen for later use.

Artificial Insemination

A technique used to introduce sperm into the female reproductive tract without natural mating.

Digital Manipulation

A method for collecting semen, often used for species like boars.