Artificial Insemination, Estrous Synchronization, and ... Points/ANSC... · Methods of collection...
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Artificial Insemination, Estrous Synchronization, and Embryo Transfer
Producers seek new ways to improve reproductive efficiency
Artificial insemination (AI) – semen deposited in the female reproductive tract by artificial means (not a male of the species by natural mating) First accomplished in the dog in 1780 Permits extensive use of outstanding sires to maximize genetic improvement
Semen can be stored for years after a bull is dead
Artificial Insemination
Methods of collection Artificial vagina
Penis is directed into the artificial vagina by the person collecting the semen
Electro-ejaculation Used frequently in bulls and rams
Semen Collection
Semen Evaluation
After collection, the semen sample is evaluated for
It is often diluted with an extender
Increases the number of straws from a single collection
Semen Storage Semen can be used fresh or stored in liquid nitrogen
Stored semen is stored in a liquid nitrogen tank
Detecting Estrus
For AI to be successful, estrus must be detected
Methods
Chin ball marker (cattle)
Brisket marking harness (sheep, goats)
Chalk tail-head (cattle)
KMAR patches (cattle)
“teaser bull” (cattle)
Animals checked several times daily
Estrous Synchronization
Controlling or manipulating the estrous cycle so that a group of females express estrus a approximately the same time
Useful in
AI
Embryo Transfer
Many systems exist to achieve synchronization, all have advantages and disadvantages
Embryo in early stage of development is transferred from its biological mother’s (donor) reproductive tract to another female’s reproductive tract
Superovulation Treating a female with hormones to cause the release of a large number of eggs
Embryo Transfer