Determining the viability of zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) spermatozoa and changes in the integrity of its plasma membrane using the fluorescence method

Abstract

The viability of zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) sperm and changes in the integrity of its plasma membrane were examined using combined nucleic fluorescent stains SYBR-14 and propidium iodide. Approximately 97 ± 3% of the sperm in freshly ejaculated zebra mussel semen was stained with SYBR-14 (potentially viable). A statistically significant decrease in plasma membrane integrity was observed after 48 hours (8°C) when 42 ± 11% of the sperm stained as viable. Semen stored at room temperature (20°C) lost its plasma membrane integrity after 4 hours (0% viable). Motility declined from 60 ± 4% (0 time) to 30 ± 3% after 24 hours. The percentage of sperm stained with SYBR-14 was not correlated with sperm motility or the fertility test.

CORRESPONDING AUTHOR:

Joanna Białkowska, Uniwersytet Warmińsko-Mazurski, Zakład Genetyki Ewolucyjnej, ul. Oczapowskiego 5, 10-957 Olsztyn,
tel./fax: +48 89 5233754; e-mail: a.b@poczta.wprost.pl