Embryo
transfer helps to multiply your best
genetics
What
is embryo transfer?
Embryo
transfer or ET involves the super-ovulation
of the genetically superior female animal
known as the "donor". The
donor is then inseminated with semen
from a high quality male animal or bred
naturally. She is flushed 6 days later
and the recovered embryos are transferred
into surrogate mothers (the "recipients").
Why
should I consider using embryo transfer?
ET enables
you the stud breeder to maximize the
output from your genetically superior
animals and to make rapid genetic gains.
What's
the success rate?
The
number of embryos recovered varies depending
on the species and breed and this no
doubt affects the economics of the procedure.
The most prolific breeds can average
10 or more embryos per donor. Expect
a "stick" rate from fresh
embryos of 65-75%.
What
facilities do I need?
ET
is a very mainstream procedure nowadays
and can be carried out on-farm. Most
woolsheds can be adapted to meet our
needs given a good spring clean. The
programming of the animals while important
is well within the capabilities of most
stud breeders.
How
many recipients do I need to prepare
per donor?
Obviously
this depends on how many embryos are
expected per donor but usually it would
be 4-6 recipient ewes per donor ewe.
What
are the costs?
There
is usually a fee per donor flushed and
per embryo transferred. This would include
all necessary drugs. Mileage and AI
charges are additional. Talk to us at
Premier Genetics.
