Effects Of Age, Genotype, And Body Weight On Macroscopic Semen Parameters And Sperm Motility In Domestic Cocks On A Poultry Farm In Hungary

Abstract

The thesis investigates how age, genotype, and body weight affect semen quality and sperm motility in domestic cockerels at a poultry farm in Hungary. It found that genotype had the strongest influence, with dual-purpose cockerels outperforming layer types in semen volume, motility, and body weight. Age (30-55 weeks) showed no significant effect on semen quality, indicating a stable reproductive period. Body weight impacted motility differently across genotypes, negatively in layer types but not in dual-purpose birds. Semen pH positively affected motility in dual-purpose cocks, while semen color showed no influence. The study suggests that genotype-specific strategies and improved breeding practices can enhance fertility and efficiency in poultry AI programs.