In vivo embryo production in buffalo: present and perspectives

Abstract

Buffaloes constitute a significant part of the domestic stock and contribute very significantly in the rural economy, especially in South and South-East Asia. Embryo transfer technique (ETT), a proven tool for faster multiplication of desired genetic resource has been satisfactorily used for cattle and is being adopted for buffalo. Following very limited research in buffalo, the viable embryo production has increased significantly from less than 1 per flushing to 2.5-3.0 in general and over 4 in isolated cases and conception rate following embryo transfer improved from about 10% to about 30-40%. However, response to superovulatory treatments and recovery of viable embryos following superovulation is still low compared to cattle due to various factors. This paper deals with the present success rate and information on some of the factors affecting in vivo embryo production, and future possibilities to make this technique more efficient and economic for wider use, in buffalo.

Keywords

• Folliculogenesis, Follicular waves, Dominance, Atresia, Superovulation, Embryo