Artificial insemination is by far the most common method of breeding of intensively kept dairy cattle. This method can undoubtedly be considered as the oldest and most widely used technique in the assisted reproduction spectrum for livestock production.
The semen may be sexed if desired. Artificial insemination has its advantages and disadvantages. It allows for better utilization of sires, reduces the hazards and costs of keeping males, and allows for the utilization of multiple sires. However, it requires extensive training and skill development, has a high initial investment, has maintenance costs, and increases requirements for management.
Objectives of Artificial Insemination
• Genetic improvement of livestock
• Disease control mechanism
• Possible to increase fertility
• Decrease breeding expense
Artificial insemination has proven to be a very effective reproductive technology that selectively increases genetic gain through increased selection pressure on males. Farm animals, males as well as females, are usually chosen for breeding programs based on breeding soundness examinations (BSEs). These breeding soundness examinations determine suitability and likelihood of females or males to participate successfully in breeding programs.
What is artificial insemination?
