From the mountain to the microchip: the new era of bovine reproduction

The transition from traditional practices such as direct mating to modern techniques like artificial insemination and estrus synchronization represents a profound change in the way bovine reproduction is understood and managed. Ricardo Arenas Ovalle, a zootechnician, author, and presenter of the Practical Livestock Manual, is one of the main promoters of this evolution that promises greater efficiency and profitability for the sector. For decades, direct mating has been the predominant method on many farms. This tool requires maintaining a breeding bull, feeding it, caring for it, and ensuring that its number is sufficient to cover the herd of females in reproductive age. However, this practice entails high costs, health risks, and limitations in genetic advancement. Artificial insemination positions itself as a modern and effective solution. This technique allows the use of semen from bulls with superior genetic quality, stored in frozen straws within liquid nitrogen flasks. ...