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Abstract

This study correlated morphometric and motility characteristics of Lusitu boar spermatozoa. A total of 30 ejaculates, with five collected per boar, were used for the study. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s rank- and Pearson correlation coefficients. The head length was correlated (P<0.05) positively with its derivative shape parameters, namely ellipticity and elongation. The relationship was negative (P<0.05) in the correlation of head width with elongation and ellipticity. No head morphometric parameter was associated with midpiece characteristics (P>0.05). Head length was positively correlated (P<0.05) with the swimming speed parameters, VCL, VAP, VSL, and WOB. In contrast, a negative association between these speed parameters and head width was insignificant (P>0.05). Both elongation and ellipticity were associated with BCF (P<0.05). Insertion angle was negatively associated with the VCL (P<0.05). Spermatozoa hyperactivity was positively associated with head length and perimeter, while its observed significant association (P<0.05) with head roughness, midpiece width, and insertion angle was negative. It is concluded that Lusitu boar spermatozoa head and midpiece morphometric characteristics are not correlated; however, some individual traits are associated with the CASA kinematic characteristics. Head length, area, midpiece width, and insertion angle may be additional candidates for improved hyperactivation and spermatozoa fertility prediction in Lusitu boars.