This document discusses artificial insemination (AI) in cattle. It defines AI as the introduction of semen into the oviduct or uterus by means other than sexual intercourse. The key advantages of AI include allowing desirable bull genetics to be passed on to more offspring more quickly, increasing bull usage efficiency, and reducing disease transmission. However, AI also has disadvantages like requiring good estrus detection and proper semen storage. The document describes common methods for collecting bull semen, either using an artificial vagina or electric stimulation. It also outlines the process for artificially inseminating cattle.

1. Topic: Artificial Insemination (AI) in Cattle
Dr.S.Selvaraj
PG & Research Department of Zoology,
Vivekananda College,
Tiruvedakam West,
Madurai,
Tamil Nadu.
Dairy farming
(ForIII-B.Sc., Zoologystudents-2019-2020)

2.  General definition-the introduction of semen into the oviduct
or uterus by some means other than sexual intercourse.
Why Use AI?
 AI provides the producer an opportunity to use sires possessing
superior genetics. Depending upon the needs and goals of an
individual's breeding program, AI offers an economically feasible
means of increasing productivity over a wide range of traits.
In spite of this enormous potential to improve production levels,
many producers have not put themselves in a position to take
advantage of the benefits offered by AI.
Definition of AI

3. Advantages of AI
The chief advantage of artificial insemination is that
the desirable characteristics of a bull can be passed on
more quickly and to more progeny than if that animal is
mated with females in a natural fashion.
Increased efficiency of bull usage
 Increased potential for genetic selection
Decreased costs
Increased safety for animals and farmers
Reduced disease transmission

4. First, it can be more laborious, Male animals instinctively detect the
females that are in the correct status for conception.
With artificial insemination the detection work falls on the
responsibility of the farmer. Poor detection results in decreased rates of
fertility.
Also, increasing the number of offspring per male has selective
advantages only if the best males can be accurately determined.
Otherwise this process only decreases the genetic variability in a
population. Increasing the number of offspring per male always reduces
the gene pool.
Drawbacks in AI

5. Costly
 Estrus detection must be good
 Low conception rate
 Semen has to be stored properly
 Inbreeding
 The bull must be properly tested
Disadvantages of AI

6. Semen Collection Methods
 Consists of an outer tube or casing which is constructed
of heavy rubber or plastic, and an inner tube or lining of
thin rubber.
 The space between the two tubes is filled with warm
water, which maintains the collected sperm at a constant
temperature, neither too hot or too cold.
One end of the apparatus is open to allow the entrance of
the penis and the other end is attached to a glass tube or
beaker to receive the ejaculated semen.
 This is the most commonly used device for collecting
semen

7. Fig1.Semen Collection

8. Electric Stimulation method
An electro-ejaculator apparatuses introduces a weak
alternating current to the sacral and pelvic nerves via
electrodes placed in the rectum until erection and
ejaculation occur.
It is used on all farm animals except boars and horses.
It is used effectively on bulls that cannot mount due to
leg injuries.
Semen Collection Methods

9. Semen Storage
It may be kept at room temperature if it is to be used
within two hours of collection.
 If the semen will be put into long-term storage, semen
needs to be gradually cooled and frozen a temperature
below zero.
Liquid nitrogen tank – Used to store semen straws at -
320 degrees Fahrenheit – Semen stored in tank, may last
indefinitely once froze properly & temperature is
maintained

10.  Restrain the animal to be inseminated.
 Raise the tail with the right hand and gently massage the rectum with the
lubricated glove on the left hand.
Gently wipe the vulva with a paper towel to remove excess manure and
debris.
Insert the gun at a 30 upward angle to avoid entering the urethral opening
and bladder located on the floor of the vagina.
Fig. 2. AI method
Artificial Insemination procedures