Method and apparatus for measuring the motility of sperm cells.

摘要

The invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining the index characterizing the sperm motility of individual sperm cells. According to the invention, the optical density distur- bances caused by said cells is detected by an optical fiber (9) having a thickness in the range of 10 to 400 microns and preferably in the range of 50 to 150 microns. The method is particularly suitable for determining the sperm motility index of human sperm cells, as well as sperm cells of domestic animals after their dilution or thawing. A particular commercial useful application is in the classification of semen quality and artificial inseminina- tion. The method is characterized by its objectivity, simplicity and nevertheless by its sensitivity and accuracy which cmpete very favourably with other known methods and devices.