This article contains information on alternatives of propagating beef herd. It starts with an introduction on methods currently available to the beef producers with a brief explanation and reason on the popularity of Artificial Insemination. This article is intended for beef producers to provide an option on methods to accelerated genetic progress one of which is Embryo Transfer. At the end of this article suggested reading is provided if one is interested to learn more on animal breeding.

Artificial Insemination or AI is by far the most common method to accelerated genetic progress. It has allowed beef producers to introduce superior genes taken from a single host with superior genetics and effectively utilize it for propagation with little overhead cost. However artificial insemination has its limits and that is reproduction under AI allows only one offspring per year.

Embryo Transfer or ET, not as well known as Artificial Insemination is also a method available for gene progress. Why is Embryo Transfer not so popular? The reason for this is the cost involved in Embryo Transfer is more than compared to Artificial Insemination. And there is also the factor of additional procedure. Embryo Transfer requires additional process which involves the collecting and storing of embryos. However, the method of progression is limitless in an Embryo Transfer enabling multiple offspring.

A more detailed explanation on Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, comparison is discussed in the article.

A brief description on the different embryo transfer program available to beef producers is described in this article. From the collection of ones own donor cow freeze embryos from purchasing a female carrying ET derived calves.

Next the article discusses the different procedures or stages involved in an Embryo Transfer. Starting by super ovulation, breeding and embryo recovery, from selecting a donor cow the super ovulating her. In this process different equipment and instruments will be needed; from catheter to the use of an embryo transplant microscope. Collected fluids taken from the cow are analyzed under an embryo transplant microscope and once an embryo is found it is then frozen and prepared for transfer to the host cow.  Note the importance of an embryo transfer microscope for locating an embryo in this stage.

Freezing and thawing is the next stage discussed. In this procedure there are two types of procedure available either by thawing and transferring or direct transfer. Freezing of an embryo requires specialized equipment and the procedure should be done in a laboratory environment.

Last of the steps is the transfer to the recipient cow which should be in good health and have received inoculation as prescribed by a veterinarian. This is discussed thoroughly in the article. These include the method in introducing the frozen embryo to the female, the importance of estrus synchronization, the procedure involved in a non surgical transferring of the embryos. Also supporting data on the number of embryos possibly to be collected is included. The article also points out the importance of a good cow that will be the recipient of the embryos.Finally the cost involved in an Embryo Transfer is explained.Continue research on this page