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Vertebrate reproductive science and technology
RESEARCH ARTICLE

Investigation of male and female infertility in llamas and alpacas

Ahmed Tibary A B E , Alexis Campbell A , Jacobo S. Rodriguez A C , Agustin J. Ruiz D , Cristian Patino A and Michela Ciccarelli A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Comparative Theriogenology Service, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6610, USA.

B Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6610, USA.

C Vista Equine, 5412 E County Road 32 E, Fort Collins, CO 80528, USA.

D Newcastle Equine Rehabilitation and Reproduction Center, Broadmeadow, NSW 2292, Australia.

E Corresponding author. Email: tibary@wsu.edu

Reproduction, Fertility and Development 33(2) 20-30 https://doi.org/10.1071/RD20257
Published: 8 January 2021

Abstract

Llamas and alpacas are important production animals in South America, with increasing interest in other parts of the world. Poor reproductive efficiency combined with several unique anatomical and physiological reproductive features offer challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility in camelids. This review presents an approach to the clinical investigation and common causes of infertility and subfertility in the male and female. The selection of males for breeding should be made based on complete evaluation to eliminate congenital and possibly hereditary disorders. Common disorders of the male reproductive system include testicular hypoplasia, testicular and epididymal cysts and testicular degeneration. Semen evaluation presents some challenges owing to the viscous nature of the ejaculate in these species. Females should be screened for congenital genital defects before breeding. Causes of subfertility in the female are dominated by ovarian and uterine disorders. A systematic clinical approach and the use of endometrial biopsy and advanced techniques, such as laparoscopy, allow early identification of these disorders. Further research is needed for continued understanding of the reproductive pathological processes in these species.

Keywords: assisted reproductive technology, breeding soundness, camelids, pregnancy loss, semen.


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