How long can frozen semen be stored for?

Frozen semen can be stored for a remarkably long time, and in many cases, it can last for decades without significant loss of viability. The correct answer is 40 years because, under optimal conditions in specialized storage tanks filled with liquid nitrogen, the sperm cells can remain alive and maintain their fertilization capabilities for a long time.

This extraordinary preservation capability is why frozen semen is commonly used in breeding programs, particularly in species such as dogs, horses, and cattle. It allows for genetic material to be transported and used long after the donor animal has passed away, thus conserving valuable genetics.

Shorter time frames, such as those listed in the other options, while potentially feasible for some types of preserved biological material, do not encompass the full potential longevity of frozen semen storage as proven by scientific practice.