The application of artificial breeding as a reproductive
technique in cattle
K.L. Macmillan
Awahuri Artificial Breeding Centre, Palmerston North
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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1974, 34: 158-166
Survey data show that 100 cows reported in calf to artificial
breeding (AB) at the conclusion of one mating season will produce 29 AB
replacement heifers in milk in the herd three seasons later.
Consequently, 72% of the herd must be reported in calf to AB to maintain
an average replacement rate of 21%. Submission rate (percentage of herd
mated within 4 weeks) may be more important than conception rate
(percentage of cows conceiving to first insemination) in achieving the
72% figure within a 7-week AB period. It is easier to predict submission
rate than conception rate and management practices should be orientated
accordingly. Virtually all cows seen in oestrus during a 7-week mating
period must be artificially inseminated if all replacement stock are to
be AB progeny.
A study of the way in which AB is being used shows marked locality
differences. These differences may be due to extension techniqu4es but
highlight the misinformed attitude that mating is a genetical rather
than a management exercise. This attitude may have arisen because
advisory officers accepted a scientist's viewpoint but did not use their
field experience to subsequently raise relevant questions with the
scientist.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Last Updated 24-08-2000
