Reproductive biology of the male buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and semen traits for assisted reproductive technologies

The buffalo is an important species in many regions of the world, particularly in Asia, Africa and parts of Europe. Among the various species of buffalo, the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is the most widespread, and it is well-known for its ability to thrive in wet and humid environments. In Europe, Italy is one of the leading producers of buffalo milk, and is particularly renowned for the production of Mozzarella di Bufala, a cheese made from the milk of water buffalo. Scientific knowledge on applied physiology, health, husbandry and reproduction in buffalo remains limited. This may be partly due to the fact that the species has historically been of greatest economic importance in regions where production systems are predominantly traditional and research investment has been limited. More recently, research has increasingly focused on production and feeding strategies and breeding practices. In addition, much of the research on the reproductive biology and management has concentered on the female buffalo, with particular emphasis on seasonality, oestruses detection and induction, whereas relatively little attention has been paid to male reproduction.This review discusses the reproductive physiology and behaviour of the male domestic buffalo in relation to differences in management and environmental conditions under which the species is reared, with a particular focus on the Italian Mediterranean buffalo breed (IMB).