Effect of Ferula sp. on sperm cryotolerance, quality, and fatty acid composition in common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Ferula sp. is a perennial herbaceous plant and is used in traditional medicine owing to their antimicrobial, antiviral, aphrodisiac and spermatogenic activities in the world. Hence, Ferula sp. was used in the present study for cryopreservation protocol as a herbal supplement. The impact of different concentrations [0 mM (Control), 30 µg L−1, 60 µg L−1, 90 µg L−1] of Ferula sp. extract on the quality and fatty acid (FAs) composition was assessed in fresh and cryopreserved sperm of Cyprinus carpio. Optimal supplementation of Ferula sp. at a concentration of 60 µg L−1 in the freezing extender significantly improved post-thawed sperm quality of C. carpio. Sperm motility parameters were assessed using the sperm class analyzer system. The fatty acid (FAs) content in sperm was analyzed using gas chromatography. The results revealed that the increases in motility rate (80.0 ± 3.54%) at 60 µg L−1 were increased significantly (p < 0.05). Significant differences in sperm parameters [(VCL: curvilinear velocity, VSL: straight line velocity, VAP: average path velocity, and BCF: beat cross frequency)] were observed between the different treatments (p < 0.05). The Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) showed a slight increase in comparison to fresh spermatozoa during cryopreservation. DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), LA (Linoleic acid) and ARA (Arachidonic acid) were identified as the major PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acid) in the sperm plasma membrane, and however the total PUFAs reduced all treated compared to fresh sperm samples after post-thawing. Overall, the supplementation with Ferula sp. to extender at a concentration of 60 µg L−1 positively influenced the motility parameters and FAs levels during cryopreservation and, Ferula sp. may act as a promising protective substance for the conservation of valuable fish genetic resources.