Cryogenic Preservation of Atlantic Cod ( Gadus Morhua ) Sperm

• Published in: Journal of the Fisheries Research Board of Canada
• Main Authors: Mounib, M. S., Hwang, P. C., Idler, D. R.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1968
• Subjects: atlantic cod; Gadus morhua
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/f68-232; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/f68-232

Cryogenic preservation of cod sperm, with retention of fertilizing capacity, was achieved. Sperm were deep frozen to −79 C or −196 C in the presence of protecting agents. Of the conditions tested, most satisfactory freezing was accomplished in a mixture containing 1 part semen and 3 parts of a medium that consisted of 40 parts 0.4 M NaCl − 0.1 M glycine: 8 parts of 1.3% sodium bicarbonate: 10 parts of glycerol. A freezing rate of 5 degrees C/min was more successful than one of 1 degree C/min.When frozen sperm were stored at −196 C for periods up to 60 days the average fertility was 36 ± 12% (seven samples) compared with 79 ± 6% (seven samples) for fresh sperm on the same batch of eggs. Successful storage of cod sperm at −79 C for a year was achieved.