(232) Effects of Aloe Vera and Maca Root Aqueous Extracts on Semen Quality and Testicular Health in Rabbits

Abstract Authors: Omumuabuike J. Nwakaego¹ ; Machebe S. Ndubuisi² ; Ugwu S. O. Christopher²

1. Department of Animal Science, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam
². Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria Nsukka.

Abstract Text: Effects of Aloe Vera and Maca Root Aqueous Extracts on Semen Quality and Testicular Health in Rabbits

Omumuabuike J. Nwakaego¹; Machebe S. Ndubuisi²; Ugwu S. O. Christopher²

1. Department of Animal Science, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam
². Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria Nsukka.


To enhance semen quality affected by environmental stressors in rabbit bucks, this research explored innovative strategies to reduce oxidative stress and promote testicular and semen health in the rabbit industry. Omumuabuike J. Nwakaego from the Department of Animal Science, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam Campus, collaborated with Machebe S. Ndubuisi and Ugwu S. O. Christopher from the Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to conduct this study.


This study investigated the effects of Aloe vera (AVE) and Maca root aqueous extract (MRE) on semen characteristics and seminiferous tubules in rabbit bucks. A total of 36 non-descript breed rabbit bucks were randomly assigned to 12 dietary treatments in a 4 × 3 factorial arrangement. Semen samples were collected using an artificial vagina and analyzed for volume, motility, concentration, viability, and morphology. After slaughter, the testes and epididymides were evaluated for structural changes. The results showed that AVE had a negative impact on semen quality, with significant reductions in volume, motility, concentration, and viability as the inclusion level increased. Higher AVE doses (2 ml and 3 ml) also increased the percentage of dead and abnormal sperm, indicating potential impairment of fertility. Conversely, MRE improved sperm motility, viability, and morphology at 0.5 ml but had adverse effects on sperm quality at 1 ml treatment. Interaction effects between AVE and MRE were observed to affecting various semen parameters, with the highest sperm motility (71.67%) at 0 ml AVE and 1 ml MRE. Histological analysis revealed that high doses of AVE caused severe degeneration of seminiferous tubules and germinal epithelium, while MRE improved spermatogenesis at 0.5 ml and 1 ml. The combination of both extracts had varying effects, with higher AVE levels worsening testicular damage. These findings suggest that high AVE doses impair fertility, while low-dose AVE and moderate MRE (1 ml) supplementation may support reproductive health.