Abstract

This research was conducted at the Kwara State Teaching and Research farm University, Malete, Ilorin, Kwara State. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of adding varying doses of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) on some reproductive characteristics of male rabbits reared in a semi humid environment. A total number of 24 rabbits with an average age of 9 months and body weight of 600-800g were used in this study and randomly divided into four equal treatments (6 rabbits each) and gavaged with 0mls (Tr1, control), 30mls (Tr2), 60mls (Tr3) and 90 mls (Tr4) of MOLE. The sperm concentration, percentage normal and abnormal sperm cells, testicular morphometry and serum testosterone level were measured. Results showed that the highest recorded values of the paired testis weight, volume and testis length were observed in rabbits given 90mls of MOLE. The testis width was significantly (P 0.05) higher in Tr4 (90mls MOLE) and lowest in Tr2 (30mls MOLE) compared to the control group. Observation showed that the sperm concentration of rabbits given 90mls of MOLE were significantly (P 0.05) improved, while the least value was recorded in Tr1 (0mls MOLE). 90mls of MOLE decreased significantly (P 0.05) the percentage abnormal sperm cells, while enhancing the percentage normal sperm cells. Testosterone concentration was insignificantly increased in Tr4 as compared to control group. At the end of the experiment, conclusion showed that Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) can be used at 90mls to enhance reproductive parameters in rabbit bucks.