Waikato sharemilker launches ‘Tinder for cows’ using AI and breeding data
Waikato sharemilker Matthew Zonderop had no inkling that one day he would become a matchmaker for cows.
A field trial using frozen sexed semen didn’t produce the desired results, says LIC.
LIC genetics business manager Greg Hamill says results mean the company recommends farmers use liquid sexed semen.
The blind trial in spring 2017 consisted of nearly 100 farmers and at least 12,000 straws -- sexed and conventional.
The results clearly showed a still substantial difference between sexed and conventional frozen semen: the sexed semen was, on average, 13.3 % down on non-return rates (NRR) compared to standard conventional straws. NRR refers to the proportion of cows not subsequently re-bred within a specified time after an insemination.
With getting cows in calf being one of the most important aspects of dairy farmers’ seasonal focus, the reproductive implications of a reduction in NRR by 13.3% is significant, says Hamill.
“These cows would remain in the dry paddock for at least three more weeks. The reduction in the reproductive performance among the herd may be too great for most farmers contemplating using frozen sexed semen.”
LIC ran the frozen sexed semen trial with Sexing Technologies, the only supplier of sexed semen in New Zealand, using multi-head technology that allows it to sort semen faster and up to four million cells per straw.
Hamill says improvements in the technology of sexing semen are well documented and there was a good deal of anticipation and excitement about what the trial results would show.
LIC had hoped to see the technological improvements reflected in better NRR for dairy farmers. Using sexed semen for breeding has advantages. For many years dairy farmers have been excited about the possibility of using sexed semen to drive genetic gain within their herds, says Hamill.
“This makes sense, because it enables farmer to get more heifer calves from their top performing animals.”
The above factors were key drivers behind LIC’s desire to participate in the trial with Sexing Technologies.”
OPINION: Ministry for Primary Industries' situation outlook for primary industries report (SOPI) makes impressive reading.
Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…