Abstract
Fructose and ascorbic acid in the seminal plasma of two rams were measured through a year to examine the seasonal variation and their relationship to spermatogenesis.
1. The concentration of fructose changed according to the breeding and non-breeding seasons appearing in ewes. That is, a noticeable increase was recognized during September-December (the breeding season), while extreme decrease was seen during March - July (the non-breeding season). January - February showed falling, while July - August showed rising tendency.
2. The present results suggested that there was seasonal variation in the secretory function of ram's sex accessory organs.
3. Judging from decrease in sperm concentration and index of motile spermatozoa and drop in pH of the semen during summer, passing hypo-spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubes might be caused by the high temperature and humidity. However, there was no direct relationship between the phenomenon and the concentration of fructose.
4. The concentration of ascorbic acid tended to increase during January - June, and decrease during, July - December.
