Computer-assisted analysis (CASA) of common carp Cyprinus carpio L. spermatozoa motility in the presence of cadmium

Abstract

The effect of different cadmium concentrations on sperm motility in common carp was investigated. The motile activity of spermatozoa was evaluated by means of computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA) using three major parameters characterizing sperm movement – VCL, VAP and VSL. Moreover, subjective microscopic observations were performed in order to evaluate the average time of sperm movement. The following cadmium concentrations were tested: 10, 50 100, 200, 500, 1,000 and 2,000 ppm. Computer assisted analysis and microscopic observations both showed that cadmium decreases the motility of carp spermatozoa in all tested concentrations, and that lethal effects were detectable at a concentration of 500 ppm (as determined by CASA) or 1,000 ppm (when manual microscopic observations were performed). Additionally, it was shown that low cadmium concentrations have the most negative influence on straight line velocity, which suggests the possible negative influence of cadmium on the ability of sperm to fertilize female gametes.