The effects of filiform appendage removal on semen collection in the ram

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.