ABSTRACT

Twelve sexually mature Dutch rabbits were used to evaluate the influence of tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) on the reproductive characteristics of rabbits. The treatment group (T2) was compared to an untreated group (T,). Results showed that mean semen volume of T, was significantly higher (P<0.05) than the T, group, with volumes 0.30+0.03mls and 0.21+0.1mls respectively. There was also significant (P<0.05) effect of the test ingredient on the mean spenn concentration of the rabbits, with T2 showing superiority in spermatozoa count, 153.33+27.78 x10° cells per ml and 345.28+46.60 x10° cells per ml respectively. There was, however, no significant difference (P>0.05) between the two groups in the sperm motility, live/dead proportion and reaction time between the two groups respectively. Results from the testicular parameters measured revealed no significant differences (P>0.05) in the testes weight , vas deferens, testis length, right segment of testis circumference, epididymal length, paired testis weights, whole reproductive tract between the groups. However, significant differences (P<0.05) existed between the groups in the left segment of the testis circumference (TC)- 7.95+0.05g and 7.05+0.05g respectively- and in the weight of epididymis (WEP) between groups. It was concluded that although semen volume of the T2 was depressed it had a significant higher spermatozoa concentration over the T), and this indicates higher chances of fertility and litter size with this group, To. Furthermore semen from such treated animals can be processed for further usage in artificial insemination (AI) programs.