Seminal Characteristics And Libido In New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diet Containing Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Meal:- Nkemjika Loveth

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted to examine the semen characteristics and libido of New Zealand white rabbits fed diets containing Thymus vu/garis leaf meal. Eighteen rabbits at 7-month old rabbits were divided into three groups of six rabbits each assigned to three experimental diets containing Thymus vu/garis at 0% (control), 2.5% and 5% level of inclusion. Semen collected was analyzed for volume, colour, viscosity, concentration, abnormal sperm and live sperm proportions. Libido and reaction time were also monitored. The result obtained showed significant (P<0.05) differences between the treatments in viscosity, reaction time, semen volume, total abnormal sperm proportion, semen concentration, live sperm concentration where normal sperm, proportion, mass motility did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among control diets, while the colour was consistent in all the treatment groups. It can be concluded that Thymus vulgaris is recommended for quality semen production and enhancement of libido in rabbits.