Jenna Parnell Agricultural Leadership ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATI ON A.I.

General definition-the introduction of semen into the oviduct or uterus by some means other than sexual intercourse. Ag definition- the use of semen from a genetically superior male to inseminate a female resulting in a genetically superior offspring. WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION?

99% of female swine are artificially inseminated in the world 50% farrow with 10 or more piglets per litter Sexing sperm can be done in swine but a very slow process & not used often Frozen sperm not used in the swine industry QUICK FACTS

Genetic Improvement Disease control Cost effectiveness Less stress on gilt/sow (can use larger boar on smaller gilts) Safety Reduce number of boars needed on farm doses per collection ADVANTAGES

Time Required (in minutes) per female to complete breeding Number of femalesNatural ServiceArtificial Insemination TIME SAVING Tubbs, Rick. Swine Production Management. Helping clients implement an artificial insemination program.

Human Error Equipment needed Time/Labor Careful herd observation required Cannot freeze semen due to decreased fertility Higher level of management BUT better record keeping DISADVANTAGES

Collection: Dummy Space Bottles/Caps Extender Thermometer Distilled Water Microscope Storage A.I. Pipettes/catheters Synchronization SUPPLIES NEEDED

Collection: Every other day 1-5 semen collections per week mL per collection (million/mL) sperm concentration doses per collection Volume varies by breed, age, and collection frequency COLLECTION INFORMATION

PROCESSING THE SEMEN The semen is extended Extender dilutes the semen so that it can be used for many females Extender must be added when semen and extender is within 3 degrees of each other Look at semen under the microscope Bottle and store semen until needed or shipped

SUPPLIES USED

Storage Temperature degrees Fahrenheit Typically used within three-seven days from collection Do not expose to sunlight Temperature fluctuations shorten semen life Rotate bottles 3-4 times daily STORAGE OF SEMEN

Increased activity Mounting Swelling and redness of vulva Discharge Standing heat Best indicator of estrus *Takes time to catch in heat Return to heat every 21 days HEAT DETECTION

Gilts- 12 hours after heat detection Sows- 24 hours after heat detection Typically use 2-3 doses per female (12 hour difference) Re-check every 21 days for recycling BREEDING

QUESTIONS???