Challenges in the development of artificial insemination in the dromedary camel

Abstract

Artificial insemination (AI) in dromedaries remains challenging. A few AI trials with liquid stored semen have been published but they remain too small in term of number of inseminated females. AI trials with frozen-thawed semen have met with very little success. This papers reviews research performed in the area of dromedary semen collection and preservation with a special emphasize on biological differences compared to other species. These include, the viscous nature of camel ejaculate and the need for it liquefaction, the importance of induction of ovulation and possible effect on fertility and the difficult in reliably obtaining good quality ejaculates. We also present the most recent data regarding behavior of camel semen in various extenders and technique for preservation. Areas where further research is needed are pointed out throughout the manuscript.

Keywords

• Artificial insemination
• fertility
• semen
• extenders
• dromedary camel