Fragmentation index of DNA sperm in llama semen (Lama glama)

DNA fragmentation of spermatozoa is an important indicator of seminal quality and fertility. The quality of the genetic information contained in the DNA molecule transmitted by the spermatozoa is important for the proper development of the embryo. In humans it has been shown that there is a significant correlation between sperm DNA damage and oocyte fertilization, embryo quality, development to blastocyst and embryo implantation. The objective of this study was to analyze the fragmentation of DNA sperm in llama semen collected by post-copulation vaginal aspiration. The collection of 4 llamas was performed on three occasions per animal. The volume, motility, concentration, vitality, sperm membrane functionality assessed with the Integrated Semen Analysis System - ISAS®. The DNA fragmentation index was tested with the Halomax system ®(Halotech company). Volume, motility, vitality and sperm concentration respectively were 1.3 ± 0.8 ml, 12.30 ± 2.02%; 64.69 ± 11.39% and 183.55 ± 28.48 x 106 spz/ml. The functionality of the sperm membrane was 64.95 ± 11.63% and sperm DNA fragmentation index 11.58 ± 13.25%. The values of these different parameters indicate the high quality of the collected semen.