Caracterización de la calidad seminal de toros criollo Casanare: Un estudio de caso en Colombia

Characterizing the reproductive capabilities of bulls from Creole cattle breeds adapted to the agroclimatic conditions of the Colombian Orinoquía region promotes breed conservation. The study aimed to characterize semen quality of Casanare Creole bulls from a herd in Aguazul, Casanare, Colombia. A cross-sectional study with non-probability sampling was conducted, including 15 bulls aged 3 to 8 years, maintained on pasture and in good body condition score (3.5-4.0). Semen collection was performed using electroejaculation, and sperm analysis was carried out using a computerized system (CASA). Physical, morphological, and kinematic variables were evaluated, including motility, viability, and sperm normality. Results showed that 73.3% of the bulls responded positively to the collection. The average scrotal circumference (28-31 cm) was within the normal range for breeds adapted to the tropics. Principal component analysis allowed the bulls to be grouped into three categories according to semen quality: Group 1 (45.5%) with semen of high physical-morphological quality and excellent motility; Group 2 (36.4%) with normal morphological values but low motility; and Group 3 (18.1%) with intermediate parameters. The positive correlations between scrotal circumference, sperm concentration, and motility confirm the usefulness of these indicators in the selection of breeding stock. The results highlight the presence of Criollo Casanare bulls with excellent semen quality.