Why Embryo Transfer is better than Artificial Insemination
Employing artificial Insemination in order to genetically improve dairy herds takes approximately 4 cattle generations (roughly 12 years). This is because genetic progress amounts to 50% for each generation - the male factor being the major influence. Because embryo transfer combines both elite male and elite female factors, Godrej Maxximilk enables genetic progress of 100% to be achieved within 1 Generation (roughly 3 years).
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Embryo transfer accelerates genetic progress
Embryo transfer is an excellent tool for rapidly improving genetics and increasing milk production while improving disease control and enhancing the health of dairy herds. Unlike artificial insemination, which involves the use of superior sires, embryo transfer dramatically increases the rate of genetic progress because it involves both cows and bulls. Yes, embryo transfer entails crossing superior females with superior sires.
About in-vitro fertilization
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a reproductive technology in which an oocyte (egg) is obtained from the female and fertilized with sperm in-vitro (outside of the body, or literally, in the laboratory). Oocytes are aspirated from the ovaries of donor cows, selected and then incubated for a maturation. As soon as the oocytes have matured, they are co-cultured for fertilization, with semen from pedigree bulls. Embryos are kept in a culture medium to develop for a further seven days, during which, each and every embryo is evaluated for quality and transfer suitability.
About embryo sexing
The use of sexed embryos is a great way to increase herd size without spending money for replacement heifers and without the disease risks involved in hosting heifers from other farms. Genetic excellence in heifer breeding now enables dairy farmers to use their best cows to maximise the quality of their herds. When using sorted sperm in order to produce sexed female embryos, Godrej Maxximilk regularly achieves a 90% sexing success rate.