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Seminal Plasma Protein Concentration as a predictor of Fertility and Hatchability in Large White Domestic Turkeys

Department of Poultry Science, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0379; Phone: (803) 656-4028; FAX: (803) 656-1033

Correspondence: R. J. Thurston

Two flocks of yearling Large White turkeys representing high (61 toms; 123 hens) and low (63 toms; 111 hens) hatchability lines were pedigree mated: 1 tom/1-3 hens. In the fifth month of a six month breeding season, infertility (of unknown origin) and poor hatchability were experienced in both flocks. At this time, semen was collected once from the males, and seminal plasma protein concentrations were measured and correlated with fertility and hatchability for a 20 week breeding period.

Males with high seminal plasma protein (equal to or greater than 6 g/100mL) were afflicted severely with yellow semen syndrome (YSS). Hens with which these males were mated produced eggs with significantly reduced fertility and hatchability. When the protein concentration was less that 6 g/100mL, no significant relationship between seminal plasma protein concentration and fertility or hatchability of total or fertile eggs occurred. These responses held true for both the high and low hatchability lines. We conclude that a single determination of seminal plasma protein concentration can be used to detect breeder males of poor reproductive potential.

Key Words: Turkey • semen • seminal plasma • proteins • fertility • hatchability