Camels and Camelids

AN UPDATE ON BACTRIAN CAMEL REPRODUCTION

Journal Edition: June 2008
Article DOI:
Published On: 11-10-2018 07:03

Amir Niasari-Naslaji
Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran


ABSTRACT


This manuscript will focus on our recent findings on bactrian camel reproduction including collection, processing, biochemical and biophysical characteristics of semen, an introduction of the novel extender named SHOTOR diluent, for the short and long-term preservation of semen, some aspects of controlling follicular dynamics and interspecies embryo transfer from bactrian to dromedary camel. Bactrain camel semen was collected using a modified bovine artificial vagina and processed to reduce semen viscosity using mechanical approach. Following determination of bactrian camel semen pH (7.4±0.1) and osmolality (318.2±1.9 mOsm/kg H2O), a tris based semen extender (SHOTOR diluent) was innovated for short (24 hrs at 4°C) and long-term (frozen state) preservation of semen in this species. Controlled follicle dynamics in bactrian camel could be achieved successfully following 2 consecutive injections of GnRH (either i.m. or i.v), 14 days apart. The first bactrian camel calves were born after transferring bactrian camel embryos to dromedary camel. In conclusion, controlling follicle wave cycle and implementing reproductive technologies will assist us to extend AI network in camel and to preserve bactrian camel from the threat of extinction.
Key words: Bactrian camel, follicle wave cycle, interspecies embryo transfer, SHOTOR diluent