<b>Effect of diet supplementation with Selenium and Vitamin E on the seminal parameters of goats induced to scrotal insulation</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v30i1.3620

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of Selenium and Vitamin E supplementation on the semen parameters of goats induced to scrotal insulation (SI). Twelve animals were used, distributed randomly in two groups (G1 = Control; G2 = Selenium and Vitamin E). Two months after the start of diet supplementation on G2 animals, it was realized SI was induced during 18 days. After this period (SI), supplementation was maintained during 42 days, corresponding to the post-insulation phase (PSI). For semen analysis, six semen collections were performed (before, during and after SI). There was no effect of Selenium and Vitamin E supplementation on the quanti-qualitative characteristics of the semen. With the exception of semen volume, a significant effect (p < 0.05) was observed between collection days for both groups (G1 and G2), with reduction in motility, vigor, sperm concentration, acrosome and DNA integrity. After 42 days of SI, normal values were observed for motility and sperm vigor, acrosome and DNA integrity in one animal per group. It can be concluded that the high temperature of the testes of goats subjected to SI alters semen parameters; Selenium and Vitamin E supplementation on goats, in a concentration of 0.1 mg and 0.3 mg kg^-1 BW-1, respectively, was not sufficient to minimize the deleterious effects of induced scrotal insulation