Total Aseptization of Boar Semen, to Increase the Biosecurity of Reproduction in Swine

Abstract

The aim of the study was to establish the complete microbiological profile of boar semen (Sus scrofa domesticus) and to choose the most effective antiseptic measures in order to control and optimize AI reproduction in pig farms. One hundred and one semen samples were collected and analyzed from several pig farms. The microbiological profile of ejaculates was determined by evaluating the degree of contamination of fresh semen and after dilution with specific extenders. The bacterial and fungal load of fresh boar semen recorded an average value of 82.41/0.149 × 103 CFU/mL, while after diluting the ejaculates the contamination value was 0.354/0.140 × 103 CFU/mL. Twenty-four germs (15 bacterial and 9 fungal species) were isolated, the most common being Candida parapsilosis/sake (92%) and Escherichia coli (81.2%). Modification of the sperm collection protocol (HPBC) reduced contamination in raw sperm by 49.85% in bacteria (significant (p < 0.00001) and by 9.67% in fungi (non-significant (p < 0.111491). The load in bacteria and filamentous fungi can be controllable, but not in levuras fungi. Some fluconazole-added extenders (12.5 mg%), ensure fungal aseptization, and even an increase in sperm progressivity (8.39%) for at least a 12 h shelf life after dilution. Validation of sperm aseptization was done by maintaining sow fecundity unchanged after AI (insignificant p > 0.05).