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Detection of Oestrus and Timing of Insemination for Better Conception | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Detection of Oestrus

  • Oestrus, the receptive period in females, crucially determines successful artificial breeding. Recognizing behavioural and physiological cues during this period is essential for effective oestrus detection.
  • Common behavioural changes include frequent bawling, restlessness, micturition, licking behavior, mounting activities, and, in some cases, silent heat. 
  • Additionally, a distinct discharge through the vulva, characterized by clear, viscous, and cohesive mucus, signifies oestrus. 
  • Changes in the genital organs, such as vulva swelling, hyperemia of the vaginal mucous membrane, open cervix, turgid uterus, and the presence of a mature Graafian follicle in the ovary, further confirm oestrus.

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What are some common behavioural changes that can indicate oestrus in females?
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Time of Insemination for Improved Conception

  • Determining the optimal time for insemination is crucial for achieving a satisfactory conception rate. Breeding is generally avoided in the first 50-60 days post-calving to allow for complete uterine involution. 
  • Conception rates are low at 30 days but increase by 60 days, reaching a peak at 80 days post-calving. Research indicates that sperm survival in the reproductive tract ranges from 24-48 hours for optimal fertility. 
  • Notably, the fertile life of ova in cattle is reported to be 8-12 hours, emphasizing the significance of well-timed insemination within this narrow window.
  • The recognition of these timeframes contributes to maximizing conception rates in artificial breeding programs.

Detection of Oestrus and Timing of Insemination for Better Conception | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC

  • Van Demark and Moellar (1951) observed that in cows, sperm requires 2.5 minutes to reach the fallopian tube post-insemination. In buffaloes, Rao et al. (1960) reported a slightly longer duration, with sperm taking 4 minutes to reach the fallopian tube after insemination.

For optimal fertilization chances, it is crucial for spermatozoa to be strategically positioned, awaiting the ovum. This ensures a timely encounter between the two entities shortly after ovulation. Since both spermatozoa and the ovum undergo essential changes before fertilization, it is recommended to inseminate cows during the 'middle of estrus' or 6-18 hours before ovulation.

Question for Detection of Oestrus and Timing of Insemination for Better Conception
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When is the optimal time for insemination to achieve improved conception rates in cattle?
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The document Detection of Oestrus and Timing of Insemination for Better Conception | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC is a part of the UPSC Course Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC.
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FAQs on Detection of Oestrus and Timing of Insemination for Better Conception - Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC

1. What is oestrus and why is it important for conception?
Ans. Oestrus, also known as heat, is the period in the reproductive cycle of female animals when they are sexually receptive and potentially able to conceive. It is important for conception because during oestrus, the female releases mature eggs from her ovaries, increasing the chances of fertilization by a male's sperm.
2. How can oestrus be detected in female animals?
Ans. Oestrus in female animals can be detected through various signs and behaviors. These may include increased vocalization, restlessness, mounting other animals, swollen vulva, clear and stretchy vaginal discharge, and changes in appetite and behavior. Additionally, there are also advanced techniques like hormone assays and ultrasound examinations that can be used for accurate detection of oestrus.
3. Why is timing of insemination important for improved conception?
Ans. Timing of insemination is crucial for improved conception because the female's reproductive system is only receptive to fertilization for a limited period during oestrus. If insemination occurs too early or too late, the chances of successful fertilization decrease significantly. By accurately timing insemination during the peak of oestrus, the probability of achieving conception and subsequent pregnancy is maximized.
4. What are some methods used to determine the optimal time for insemination?
Ans. There are several methods used to determine the optimal time for insemination. These include visual observation of oestrus signs, such as mounting behavior and discharge characteristics, as well as hormonal assays to measure hormone levels associated with oestrus. Additionally, ultrasound examinations can be performed to monitor follicle development and detect changes in the reproductive organs, providing valuable information for precise timing of insemination.
5. How can improved conception rates be achieved through accurate detection of oestrus and timing of insemination?
Ans. Accurate detection of oestrus and timing of insemination can significantly improve conception rates in animals. By ensuring that insemination occurs during the peak of oestrus, when the female is most fertile, the chances of successful fertilization and subsequent pregnancy are increased. This can lead to higher conception rates, reduced breeding costs, and improved overall reproductive efficiency in livestock and other animals.
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