The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of vitamin E on the semen characteristics of the Markhoz goats. Eighth bucks were randomly allocated into two groups, and received two different diets: unsupplemented diet (control) and supplemented diet with vitamin E (0.30 g/Kg DM). All experimental diets were formulated according to AFRC 1998. Semen was collected at 14-days intervals from June 17, 2006 to September 2, 2006 (non-breeding season) using artificial vagina. Semen characteristics were evaluated including semen volume, sperm concentration, live sperm percentage, percentage of motility and progressive motility. This characteristics were evaluated at two weeks intervals the trial. The total number of spermatozoa per ejaculation was calculated by multiplication of the semen volume with sperm concentration. Sperm motility was also analyzed by placing a sample on pre-warmed (37ºC) microscope slide covered with a cover slip, and examined under a high power microscope at a magnification × 200. Data was analyzed using proc MIXED in SAS program. Significant effect (P≤0.05) of the week (sampling time) was observed for all the parameters except for semen volume. Vitamin E supplementation significantly improved (P≤0.05) total number (Control: 263.7 ×107±17.506 vs. Vit E: 320.95 ×107±17.506 ) and sperm concentration (Control: 301.79 ×107±13.657 vs. Vit E:386.57 ×107± 13.657), motility (Control: 77.27% ±0.89 vs. Vit E:82.6% ±0.89 ) and progressive motility (Control:4.208 ±0.138 vs. Vit E:4.229 ±0.138 ), percentage of viability (Control:80.57% ±0.89 vs. Vit E: 85.9% ±0.89 ). The results suggested that the supplemental Vitamin E may improve the semen quality and fertility in the Markhoz goats.
