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Methods for Semen Evaluation II. Sperm Cytology in Relation to Viability^*

University of Minnesota

Abstract

The quality of spermatozoa may be measured by bio-chemical or microscopic methods. Each method furnishes desirable information but neither is complete when used alone. Because the two technics do supplement one another, coordinated studies between them are necessary for a complete analysis of a seminal sample.

Studies were made on the limiting membrane of the ram's sperm in an attempt to find a morphological measure of the physiological condition of spermatozoa. Normally this membrane does not appear as sharply and distinctly as do the borders of some other cell types. However, by using aceto-carmine stain and dark-field illumination, the membrane about the head and tail of the sperm may be seen clearly. On most ram spermatozoa the membrane is structureless but on some cells a small hyaline vesicle may be observed at the anterior border. This structure is apparently a component of the membrane itself because the vesicle is completely outlined by the external limiting wall of the cell.

^* Paper No. 1761 Scientific Journal Series of the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station. A contribution from the Animal Genetics Section, Division of Animal and Poultry Husbandry.