The effect of vitamin A on male reproduction was investigated in 71 camels, 4 to 15 years of age, for one year. Blood samples were analysed for vitamin A and B-carotene concentrations. Sperm production rates, testosterone values and testicular histopathology were figured out for respective animals.
The mean blood concentrations of vitamin A and B-carotene in all camels were 60.76 Ug% and 69.75 Ug% respectively. Though age significantly influenced (P < 0.01) the vitamin A values, it had no statistically significant effect on B-carotene. Maximum (92.67 Ug%) and minimum (40.19%) vitamin A values were found in sera of camels 8.5-12 and 15 years of age respectively.
Season has a significant (P < 0.01) effect on the concentration of vitamin A. Values of vitamin A were higher (68.07 Ug%) during the green season (November to May), than (53.30 Ug%) during the dry season (June to October).
Higher levels of vitamin A were associated with larger testes and maximum values of sperm production per gram parenchyma tissues, gonadal sperm reserve, daily sperm production and testosterone concentration. Statistical analysis revealed a significant coefficient of correlation between vitamin A and these criteria.
Histological examination of the testes of vitamin A deficient camels showed testicular degeneration. Detailed description for the forms of degeneration was encountered.