Evaluation of Semen Quality Indices in Cultured and Wild Broodstock of Clarias gariepinus: Implications for Aquaculture Reproduction and Broodstock Management

Abstract Background Aquaculture has become one of the fastest-growing food production sectors globally and is increasingly recognized as a strategic solution to declining capture fisheries, food insecurity, and rising protein demand. This study evaluated and compared semen quality parameters of cultured and wild broodstock of Clarias gariepinus with the aim of determining their reproductive suitability for aquaculture seed production and broodstock management. Method A total of twenty (20) mature male broodstock comprising ten (10) cultured and ten (10) wild individuals were used. Fish were selected based on uniformity in size, age, and health status. Semen was obtained through testicular extraction following dissection, and key reproductive parameters including gonadosomatic index (GSI), milt volume, sperm motility, sperm concentration, viability, morphology, and semen pH were evaluated using standard laboratory procedures. Results rrevealed that wild broodstock exhibited slightly higher mean values in body weight, gonad weight, milt volume, sperm concentration, and percentage of active sperm cells compared to cultured broodstock. However, these differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Semen pH was neutral and identical in both groups, indicating favorable conditions for sperm survival. Cultured broodstock showed marginally higher percentages of sluggish sperm, while wild broodstock recorded slightly higher dead sperm percentages. Morphological evaluation indicated a higher proportion of normal sperm cells in wild fish, although variability was greater in cultured fish. Qualitative semen traits such as colour, viscosity, and liquefaction time varied slightly between groups but remained within acceptable reproductive standards. Conclusion , the findings demonstrate that both cultured and wild broodstock possess comparable semen quality characteristics and reproductive potential. The lack of significant differences suggests that properly managed cultured broodstock can effectively replace wild broodstock in hatchery operations. This has important implications for sustainable aquaculture, as it reduces dependence on wild populations while maintaining seed production efficiency. The study provides useful insights for broodstock selection, reproductive management, and genetic conservation strategies in African catfish aquaculture.