Female Reproductive Organ Monitoring (FROM) as a method of enhancing livestock reproduction

Abstract

Low conception rate, long calving interval, and poor calf production limits the profitability of livestock production keeping food security a concern. In the ASEAN region, artificial insemination (AI) remains the most common reproductive biotechnology used for livestock breeding to produce up-graded and genetically superior animals that could address the need for food and income to the rural farming communities. Field technicians play a crucial role in carrying out AI to enhance reproduction especially in the remote areas. While ultrasonography emerged as an efficient tool to check the reproductive organ of animals for efficient reproduction, the cost of the machine hinders its availability and access by Field technicians. Skills on palpation per rectum of the ovarian dynamics and tonicity of the uterus are important assets. This paper discusses the importance of Female Reproductive Organ Monitoring or FROM in the economical and efficient application of AI in the field and enhance livestock reproduction. Strategies to develop the skills of AI practitioners are outlined to come out to skilled technicians who could execute an accurately check the reproductive status of the animals and determine the perfect time to carry out an effective and efficient AI. This method is helpful in determining the timing of AI making the resources, time and efforts of the technicians maximized and livestock production more efficient.