Enhancing motility of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) sperm by Tribulus terrestris extract supplementation

Tribulus terrestris (TT) is a famous traditional plant of family Zygophyllaceae and widely distributes around the world. TT has potential to elevate the testosterone, testosterone precursor and luteinizing hormone levels. In this study, trials were conducted to assessment the impact of Tribulus terrestris addition on sperm motility of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) for the first time. In the trial, we used to different concentrations [0 µg L-1 (Control), 200 µg L-1, 400 µg L-1, 600 µg L-1, 800 µg L-1 and 1000 µg L-1] of T. terrestris extract. Sperm motility characteristics and longevity were determined. In addition, protodioscin content of T. terrestris extract was assessed. The present study revealed that the presence of T. terrestris caused to increase in sperm motility. The increases in duration (49.00±3.61 s) and motility rate (91.67±2.89%) at 400 µg L-1 were statistically significant (p<0.05). Overall, addition of T. terrestris to activation solution can increase the sperm motility of rainbow trout.