The advantages of embryo transfer
An accelerated rate of genetic improvement compared to artificial
insemination. The biggest advantage is that this technology provides
the breeder with an opportunity to introduce into his herd more
heifers from selected cows that possess prized characteristics.
Absence of health risks during the introduction of new genetics
in a herd
It has been scientifically proven that the risk of transmitting
infectious diseases through properly-handled embryos is minimal
or practically non-existent.
The embryo transfer technology simplifies and greatly reduces the
import and export cost of bovine genetics. A complete herd can be
transported as embryos in a liquid nitrogen solution for often less
than it would cost to transport a single animal.
Canada is always at the cutting edge of new technologies, and embryo
transfer technology is associated with embryo sexing. Even when
frozen, these embryos retain their high viability. Other technologies,
for instance the production of embryos in vitro (IVF), are also
available locally. This technology can be used for all kinds of
cows, fertile or infertile, as well as for gestating cows and prepubescent
heifers. However, the IVF embryos thus obtained, are less successfully
frozen than conventionally produced embryos. Freshly collected,
they can be sexed and transferred, and will produce a satisfactory
rate of gestation.
