To achieve sustainable livestock production in hot and dry areas, exploring new feed options, particularly drought-resistant plants that meet required animal nutritional demands, is essential. Camelthorn (Alhagi maurorum) is rich in bioactive compounds, holds significant implications for animal health and productivity. Its potential as a feed supplement for livestock has attracted attention in recent years, particularly in enhancing reproductive performance. Thus, this study aims to elucidate the impact of Camelthorn supplemen- tation on key reproductive parameters in Afshari rams as a feed supplement for enhancing reproductive efficiency in arid regions. Mature two-year-old rams (N 15) were randomly assigned to three groups. The groups received a standard basal diet with 0%, 50%, or 100% CT as a substitute for alfalfa for 75 days. Semen samples were collected every 15 days using an artificial vagina, and volume and color were analyzed. Sperm motility was assessed using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis, along with the evaluation of antioxidant status. Additionally, body weight, and scrotal circumference were measured on days 0, 42, and 75. Statistical analysis using one-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed no significant effects of the dietary treatments on the measured parameters (p 0.05). In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of Camelthorn has shown no adverse effects on key reproductive parameters in Afshari rams, highlighting its potential as an animal feed in arid and semi-arid regions. Ongoing research is focused on investigating its impact on blood biochemical factors.

Keywords