Efeito da idade sobre as principais características andrológicas de touros Brangus-Ibagé criados extensivamente no estado do Mato Grosso do Sul - Brasil / Effect of age on the andrological characteristics of Brangus-Ibagé bulls extensively reared in Mato Grosso do Sul state - Brazil

ABSTRACT

Bull fertility is extremely important for beef cattle production systems and has a multiplier impact on the economical and zootechnical indexes of the herd. Bulls raised in tropical conditions may present varied seminal characteristics due to, among other causes, different management practices and quality of pastures. Another factor that influences the semen characteristics is the age of the sire. The reproductive potential of bull evaluated through the andrological exam aims to ensure the semen quality and to improve the herd reproductive efficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the main semen parameters of Brangus- Ibagé bulls extensively reared in eastern Mato Grosso do Sul state and to verify the effect of age on the andrological characteristics analyzed. It was also evaluated the correlation between age, scrotal circumference, and physical and morphological sperm characteristics produced by the Brangus bulls.[...]