Effect of mycotoxins on porcine semen quality in artificial insemination centers

Abstract

This paper describes escalation of sudden drop in semen quality in two boars' farm centers affected by high mycotoxin level in forage (primarily by deoxynivalenol-DON). Barley and wheat harvested in 2019 was generally indicated as most risky grains for animal health and production and main source of DON. DON dominantly affected sperm total and progressive motility (agglutination and astenospermia) as well as sperm chromatin structure, while acrosome status and semen morphology were less sensitive to these changes. Bacterial control indicated increase of bacterial presence. After forage replacement a period of 1-2 months is essential for recovery of semen production, supported with prolonged vitamins and antibiotic treatment. Routine control of forage for high producing animals is essential. Sperm production is affected with DON level when is even below recommended standards for sows feed (cumulative effect), and no clinical signs may appear. Commercial mycotoxin absorbers are not efficient for such production.