Palermo, Argentina – Advances in reproductive technology are substantially impacting Argentine cattle breeding, with a majority of animals showcased at the recent Palermo Rural Exposition originating from in vitro fertilization (IVF) or embryonic washing. This trend, highlighted by producers at the exposition, is accelerating genetic enhancement and increasing calf production rates.
“These animals you see here are almost entirely products of in vitro fertilization,” explained a producer from Conesa. “Of the cattle present at Palermo, 60 to 70 percent are offspring of IVF or embryonic washing – a process where embryos are harvested from a superior cow and implanted in recipient females. This technique allows a cow to produce more calves annually than traditional breeding methods.”
The producer emphasized the technology’s role in genetic advancement. “This is genetic evolution, and it also allows you to accelerate a generation,” he stated. “with this technique, you can obtain follicles even before a cow reaches sexual maturity. It’s possible to have a calf from a two-year-old animal that hasn’t even been bred yet.”