Diluents are buffered salt solutions used to extend semen, maintain the viability of
spermatozoa in vitro, and maximize the number of hens that can be inseminated. Semen
extension is important since poultry semen is viscous and highly concentrated, contain-
ing 6 roosters. to 12 toms. billion spermatozoarml. Semen diluents are based on the
biochemical composition of chicken and turkey semen