Characterization and cryopreservation of whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus L.) semen from Lake Lebsko, Poland

Experiments were performed to establish an efficient cryopreservation method for whitefish semen from Lake Lebsko. Semen was collected from native spawners in Lake Lebsko during two consecutive spawning seasons, 2006 and 2007. The semen collected in 2006 was of poor quality. A cryopreservation method was developed for both gonadal and stripped semen using methanol as a cryoprotectant and the French straws method. The results are important for the development of methods to improve the control of whitefish reproduction. Quality control of semen and cryopreservation must be integrated into fish conservation efforts, especially with regard to stocking.