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Updated: May 24, 2026
11:10
Cryopreservation of Preimplantation Embryos of Cattle, Sheep, and Goats
Published on: August 5, 2011
Embryo death in cattle: an update
M G Diskin1, M H Parr, D G Morris
1Teagasc, Animal & Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland. michael.diskin@teagasc.ie
Reproduction, Fertility, and Development
|March 8, 2012
Summary
Embryo loss in cattle, especially high-producing dairy cows, significantly impacts reproductive success. Improving fertility through genetics and management is key to enhancing embryo survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Animal science
- Genetics
Background:
- Fertilization rates in cattle vary, with high-producing dairy cows experiencing potentially lower and more variable success.
- Embryo loss, particularly early losses before Day 8, is a significant issue in high-producing dairy cows, leading to economic losses.
- Progesterone levels and postpartum energy balance critically influence conception and embryo survival rates in cattle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors affecting cattle embryo survival.
- To highlight the economic impact of late embryo loss.
- To explore strategies for improving fertility and embryo survival in cattle breeding.
Main Methods:
- Review of factors influencing fertilization and embryo survival, including hormonal profiles and energy balance.
- Discussion of the role of genetic variability and genomic technology in enhancing fertility traits.
- Analysis of management practices that can mitigate embryo loss.
Main Results:
- Fertilization generally exceeds 90% in heifers and moderate-yielding cows but can be lower in high-producing dairy cows.
- Major embryo loss occurs before Day 16, with evidence of earlier losses in high-producing dairy cows.
- Both inadequate and excessive progesterone concentrations negatively affect embryo survival.
Conclusions:
- Developing balanced breeding strategies emphasizing fertility, feed intake, and energy is crucial.
- Genomic technology offers potential for understanding and improving genes related to embryo survival.
- Implementing manageable, producer-controlled factors can significantly enhance herd reproductive performance and embryo survival.
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