Testicular Biometry for Breeding Soundness Evaluation of Sahiwal Males Reared under Tropical Conditions

Background: The testicular biometry such as scrotal circumference (SC) and scrotal volume, affect semen quality hence bull fertility and thus testicular biometry can be used for breeding soundness of bulls. Methods: The present study was carried out to study the testicular parameters of 77 Sahiwal males of different ages and to establish its importance for selection of breeding bulls during 2015-2016 at ICAR-NDRI, Karnal. The testicular biometry of each male was done at monthly intervals using Vernier calliper, cloth tap and ultrasonography. Result: The semen quality parameters were significantly (P less than 0.05) more in the group having higher scrotal circumference. The scrotal circumference follows the curvilinear manner of growth from 12 months to greater than 72 months (correlation value of 0.92 and R2 0.84). The paired testicular volume (PTV) differed significantly (P less than 0.05) between different age group males. Scrotal circumference and paired testicular volume are directly related to semen quality hence bull fertility. Thus, testicular biometry is an important criterion for breeding soundness for selecting Sahiwal males.