Evaluation of sexed semen on conception rate in crossbred heifers and cows under field conditions

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the conception rate in dairy cows inseminated with sexed semen under field conditions. A total of 97 crossbred dairy heifers and cows, aged 16 months and above with a BCS 2.75-3.0 (5-point scale), were confirmed non-pregnant by transrectal palpation and assigned to different treatment groups. Cows (n=25) in estrus inseminated with conventional semen as Group I, heifers (n=30) in estrus inseminated with sexed semen as Group II, Cows (n=30) in their second lactation or beyond inseminated with sexed semen as Group III and heifers (n=12) in estrus inseminated with conventional semen as Group IV. Artificial insemination was performed on cows and heifers exhibiting estrus, characterized by the presence of clear cervico-vaginal mucus. Cows returning to estrus after insemination were re-inseminated according to their assigned group. Cows that did not return to estrus were subjected to pregnancy diagnosis at 30 days post-insemination using a Pregnancy Associated Glycoprotein (PAG) kit, with confirmation on the 45th day through rectal palpation and ultrasound scanning. The comparatively lower conception rate with sexed semen can be improved by combining its use with effective farm management practices and targeting high-quality heifers and cows with excellent reproductive and productive performance.