The Anatomy & Physiology of Sperm Production in Boars

Introduction The reproductive efficiency of the breeding herd depends upon the fertility of the boar. Male fertility is essential since the boar's DNA is the primary mechanism through which genetic improvements can efficiently be accomplished. In production settings, the critical event, which begins the reproductive process, is the meeting of sperm and eggs inside the female reproductive tract. To have fertile sperm in the reproductive tract of the female at the proper time depends upon several factors. These include the boar’s physical willingness and ability to mate, and produce live and physically normal sperm in adequate numbers. This mating must also result in pregnancy and produce a large litter of live pigs at farrowing. In order to have a boar that can meet all of these criteria, considerable amounts of time and effort are needed to carefully evaluate and select boars for reproduction based on performance records. The overall factors that influence a male's fertility are complex. An understanding of the anatomy and physiology of sperm production in the boar can aid in selecting and managing males to ensure optimal boar fertility. This article describes the anatomy and physiology of the boar, what factors influence sperm production, and how these influence boar fertility.