Development and evaluation of sperm diluents for the artificial insemination of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Abstract

In this study an attempt was made to develop a suitable diluent based on the characteristics of good quality ovarian fluid of Oncorhynchus mykiss. The resulting simulated ovarian fluid (SOF) was compared with Borax-borie acid buffer diluent and adjusted versions thereof. The composition of al1 these diluents are given in this paper. Maximum fertilization success (81.76%) was achieved when ovarian lluid was employed as a sperm diluent. Spermatozoa showed maximum (34 seconds) forward motility after dilution with Borax 3. The use of diluents in artificial fertilization techniques by trout farmers can help them to increase the fertilization success and also facilitates hatchery procedures and broodslock management. © 1993 IFREMER-Gauthier-Villars.