Systems to facilitate multiple services of artificial insemination in beef herds
Abstract
"Estrus synchronization and artificial insemination (AI) provide unique benefits to any reproductive program. Estrus synchronization can tighten the calving distribution, producing a more uniform crop of calves at weaning and increasing reproductive success in the following breeding season. With AI, semen from bulls with elite genetic merit can be used to speed genetic progress for economically relevant traits. These technologies are most commonly implemented in conjunction with natural service programs, such as when a single service of AI at the start of the breeding season is followed by bull exposure for remainder of the season. However, performing an additional AI service for females that fail to conceive initially may be a profitable opportunity for many operations, and completely replacing the need for natural service bulls through exclusive use of AI is of increasing interest to many producers. In these systems, the cost and labor saved on bull acquisition, feed, and other maintenance expenses can be greater than the cost of products and labor commonly cited as a barrier to the use of AI."--First page.
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OpenAccess.
Provided for historical documentation only. Check Missouri Extension and Agricultural Experiment Station websites for current information.