Livestock Reproductive Techniques

Abstract

Genetic improvements of farm animals through assisted reproductive technologies like artificial insemination, superovulation, in vitro fertilisation, embryo transfer, embryo cryopreservation, cloning, transgenesis, sexing of semen and embryos, stem cell technology, embryo genomics, micro and nanotechnology have been introduced to overcome reproductive problems. These technologies are used to increases the offspring from selected females as well as to reduce the generation intervals in farm animal. Reproductive ability and efficiency have improved significantly since the introduction of artificial insemination. These alternative reproductive methods are available not only for manipulation of reproductive processes but also powerful tools in overcoming the spread of vertically transmitted diseases. These technologies have also been used to conserve the indigenous breeds. The successful reproductive technologies namely AI and embryo transfer required for application on a large scale, emerging biotechnologies such as MOET, IVF and cloning provide powerful tools for rapidly changing the animal populations. These advanced reproduction technologies will definitely play a significant role in the future perspective and visions for efficient reproductive performance of livestock.