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Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of synchronizing the ovulation of the recipient cows in embryo transfer programs?
What is the average conception rate to transferred fresh IVF embryos in Australia?
What is the primary purpose of using Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) or Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs) in sheep breeding programs?
How can pre-selecting donor cows with a higher likelihood of yielding more embryos affect the expected embryo transfer statistics?
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Which of the following factors can significantly contribute to the outcome of an assisted reproduction program in cattle?
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Why is it important to understand the oestrus cycle when using reproductive technologies?
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How can EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values) be used to increase profitability in cattle production?
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What is the link between genetic superiority and income in cattle production?
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Why do commercial producers tend not to use reproductive technologies extensively?
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How does reproductive efficiency contribute to profitability in beef and dairy cattle production?
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Which of the following hormones plays a crucial role in regulating the estrous cycle and ovulation?
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What is the primary function of the follicular phase during the estrous cycle?
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Which of the following behaviors is commonly observed in female animals during estrus (heat)?
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What is the purpose of oestrous synchronization in farm animals?
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When selecting a new ram or bull, what should be considered in addition to Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs)?
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What is the primary purpose of synchronizing the oestrous cycle in ewes?
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Which of the following traits is not mentioned as a potential focus area for improving the performance of a merino sheep flock using ASBVs?
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What is the primary advantage of using artificial insemination (AI) in a sheep breeding program?
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Which of the following is not generally regarded as a DIRECT potential benefit of selecting rams with high ASBVs for worm resistance?
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What is the primary reason for selecting rams with high ASBVs for carcase weight?
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Study Notes
Reproductive Technologies in Cattle and Sheep
- Recipient cows are treated to synchronize their ovulation to ensure they are at the correct stage in their cycle to receive the embryo.
- Freezing embryos is possible, but pregnancy rates to frozen IVF embryos are typically variable and can be low.
- The average conception rate to transferred fresh IVF embryos in Australia is approximately 40-45%.
- Multiple variables can affect the outcome of assisted reproduction programs, including semen quality, breed, and technician.
Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) and Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs)
- EBVs and ASBVs estimate the performance of an animal's offspring and predict the next generation's performance.
- ASBVs are the most accurate tool for predicting an animal's genetic merit for a particular trait.
- ASBVs are available for various traits, including health and welfare, growth, fleece, carcase, reproduction, and visual traits.
Using EBVs and ASBVs to Increase Profitability
- EBVs and ASBVs can help identify superior genetics, leading to increased profitability.
- Selecting animals with desirable traits can increase profitability through improved growth, reproduction, and carcase weight.
- Accurate data is crucial when making breeding decisions to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Oestrus Cycle and Reproductive Technologies
- The oestrus cycle is critical in reproductive technologies, and synchronizing the cycle can improve the success of artificial insemination (AI).
- Synchronizing the oestrous cycle can be easier and more time-efficient for farmers.
- Timing is crucial in AI, and farmers should ensure ewes are in the right stage of their reproductive cycle for successful insemination.
Merino Sheep Breeding and ASBVs
- Selecting rams with desirable ASBVs can improve the performance of a flock and overall profit.
- Five key traits to focus on in merino sheep breeding include wool yield, fibre diameter, worm resistance, birth weight, and carcase weight.
- ASBVs can help farmers make informed breeding decisions to improve their flock's profitability.
Advantages of Artificial Insemination (AI)
- AI can introduce desirable genetics from rams that may not be locally available, leading to faster genetic progress.
- AI can help farmers avoid the cost of purchasing and maintaining a ram.
Reproductive Efficiency in Beef and Dairy Cattle
- Reproductive efficiency in beef and dairy cattle is measured by a cow's ability to have a calf every 12 months, while continuing to achieve her production for beef and/or milk.
- Reproductive technologies can assist in improving reproductive efficiency.
Veterinary Recommendations
- As a vet, recommendations would include selecting animals with desirable genetics, using ASBVs to make informed breeding decisions, and synchronizing the oestrous cycle for AI.
- Farmers should also consider the importance of accurate data, semen quality, and technician expertise when making breeding decisions.
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