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Characteristics of Mycoplasma strains isolated from stallion semen
Abstract:
Eleven mycoplasma strains were isolated from the semen of 24 stallions. Eight of these strains were identified as Mycoplasma equigenitalium. Three strains which hydrolized arginine could not be identified. The growth inhibition test with immune sera against M. arginini and M. equirhinis was negative. Antibiotic sensitivity test showed that all strains were sensitive to four antibiotic of tetracycline group (oxytetracyclin, minocycline, transcycline and vibramycin). Lincomycin and gentamycin appeared to be the most active against all the strains. Comparative analysis of routine semen examination did not reveal any difference between ejaculates infected with mycoplasma and free of these organisms. However, the levels of certain biochemical components of the semen plasma (glycerylphosphorylcholine, ergothioneine, fructose and of the semen plasma (glycerylphosphorylcholine, ergothioneine, fructose and total protein) from mycoplasma-positive ejaculates were significantly lower than in the semen plasma from mycoplasma free ejaculates.
Insights
Mycoplasma equigenitalium was identified in stallion semen, impacting biochemical semen quality. This finding is crucial for equine reproduction and fertility research.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Equine Reproduction
Background:
- Mycoplasma infections can affect animal fertility.
- Stallion semen quality is vital for successful breeding programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify Mycoplasma strains in stallion semen.
- To assess the impact of Mycoplasma on semen quality and biochemical parameters.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of Mycoplasma strains from stallion ejaculates.
- Antibiotic sensitivity testing of isolated strains.
- Comparative analysis of routine semen parameters and biochemical components (glycerylphosphorylcholine, ergothioneine, fructose, total protein).
Main Results:
- Eight of eleven isolated Mycoplasma strains were identified as Mycoplasma equigenitalium.
- All strains were sensitive to tetracycline group antibiotics, lincomycin, and gentamicin.
- Mycoplasma-positive ejaculates showed significantly lower levels of key biochemical components compared to mycoplasma-free ejaculates.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasma equigenitalium is present in stallion semen and affects seminal plasma biochemistry.
- Biochemical analysis may serve as an indicator for Mycoplasma contamination in stallion semen.
- Understanding these effects is important for managing stallion fertility.