Evaluation of spermiation indices with multiple sperm collections in endangered sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus)

This study investigated the effects of multiple collections of sperm on endangered sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) sperm functional parameters [spermatozoa motility and curvilinear velocity (VCL)] as well as on protein concentration and osmolality of seminal plasma. The average sperm volume and mean spermatozoa concentration per male were significantly altered with multiple collections. On the other hand, no significant effect of multiple collections on protein concentration of seminal plasma was observed. In all experimental groups, moderate impact of sequential collection on osmolality (p < 0.05) of seminal plasma was observed. Ninety to 100% of motile spermatozoa were observed at 15 s after activation, with an average VCL of 181.12 ± 19.10 μm/s. After 90 s, average VCL decreased to 130 ± 26 μm/s. Motility was maintained for up to 4 min. The maximum percentage of motile spermatozoa was observed after the third collection of sperm. The spermatozoa VCL increased significantly with subsequent collections. The results of this study provide new data on the effects of multiple collections on quantitative and qualitative parameters of sperm in sterlet. The data confirmed that the sequential stripping has no negative effect on the percentage of motility and spermatozoa velocity. This should be beneficial for the development of sterlet aquaculture programs.