Effect of Acacia mearnsii Tannin Extract Supplementation on Reproductive Performance and Oxidative Status of South African Mutton Merino Rams

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Nutrition and the seasons are two of the better-known variables that affect the reproductive performance of farm animals. In recent years, many antioxidants have been proposed as a tool to improve male reproductive performance. Although such antioxidants, in most cases, are expensive and artificial, tannin extract presents a cheap and natural source of antioxidants. This research evaluated the supplementation effects of tannin extract (TE) and encapsulated tannin extract (ETE) on testicular measurements, semen quality, hormonal status, and oxidative status, as well as the seasonal effect on the testicular measurements of South African Mutton Merino rams. The results suggest that the encapsulation may afford the maximum benefit of TE on sperm concentration and motility. Treatments did not affect the hormonal and oxidative status. The testicular measurements were significantly higher in autumn compared to winter. The plasma level of cortisol correlates negatively with sperm mass motility, progressive motility, viability, and acrosome integrity. ABSTRACT: We investigated the supplementation effects of Acacia mearnsii tannin extract (TE) and encapsulated tannin extract (ETE) on reproductive performance and oxidative status of South African Mutton Merino rams. We also observed the season effect on the testicular measurements. Thirty rams were divided into five groups: 0.0 g TE (control), 1.5 g TE, 3 g TE, 1.5 g ETE, and 3 g ETE supplemented daily for 16 weeks transiting from autumn to winter. Bodyweight and testicular measurements were recorded biweekly. Semen and blood samples were collected weekly during the last five weeks of supplementation. Results showed that the increase in the ETE from 1.5 to 3 g increased the testicular length and sperm concentration, as well as decreased the percentages of low and non-progressive spermatozoa ([Formula: see text]). Simultaneously, the increase in the TE from 1.5 to 3 g decreased semen volume and elevated the percentage of abnormal sperm ([Formula: see text]). The results suggest that the encapsulation of TE affords the maximum benefit of the TE on the sperm quality. Treatments did not affect the hormonal and oxidative status. Testicular measurements were significantly higher in autumn compared to winter. The plasma level of cortisol significantly correlates negatively with sperm motility, viability, and acrosome integrity.