Influence of partial and full castration on the reproductive parameters of Pulfuli rams in the Far North Cameroon

Abstract

Circumference of scrotum, macro and microscopic aspects of testis and blood values of the gonadotropins, LH and FSH, and of testosterone were studied during 2 trials concerning partial or full castration of rams of the Pulfuli breed in the Far North Cameroon. The rams were slaughtered when 15 months old. The measures of the scrotum circumference permit to study the testis involution in Burdizzo castrated rams. Stabilisation of this involution occurred rather late. No seasonal influence on this parameter was recorded in entire rams. Exocrine (spermatogenesis) and endocrine (testosterone secretion) testis functions were totally suppressed in totally castrated rams. The testis weight in partially castrated rams by the “short scrotum” method was much variable (76.1 ± 41.78 g) and so was the suppression of spermatogenesis. Testosterone rates were close to those of entire rams and this most likely explains the higher performances observed before. The authors conclude that although partial castration represents an interesting alternative in terms of animal production, prudence is recommended in matter of suppressing the reproductive capacity in partially castrated rams by the short scrotum technique.