Current Status and Future Prospects for Reproductive Technologies in Small Ruminants

INTRODUCTION Reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination (AI) and multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) have been technically feasible and commercially utilized in small ruminants for many years (reviewed by Betteridge 1981; Evans 1991; Salamon and Maxwell 2000). Sheep and goats are major contributors to the domestic economy of many nations, but neither AI nor MOET has been widely adopted into normal breeding programs as, for example, has been the case for AI in dairy cattle. This paper outlines the costs and benefits of applying reproductive technologies in small ruminants, assesses the current technology and explores potential practical developments. Recent technological developments regarding in vitro embryo production, particularly in juveniles, and the incorporation of sexed sperm into artificial breeding programs are described. Reference is made to other livestock species, particularly cattle, where contrast is appropriate, and brief conclusions are drawn on the most likely technologies to be used in the commercial sector in the near future.