Application of reproductive biotechnologies for sustainable production of livestock in Turkey

Abstract

Reproductive biotechnology encompasses powerful tools to enhance the efficiency and profitability of livestock reproduction,production, and product quality. These technologies include genomic selection, evaluation of semen (from bulls, bucks, and rams) usingadvanced cell and molecular technologies, semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination, estrus synchronization, superovulation ofthe females (cows, dams, and ewes), ovum pick-up, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, embryo transfer, and pregnancy detection.The extent of applications of these modern technologies and their economic impacts for livestock production in Turkey are elusive.As a result, there is an urgent need for sound economic analyses, research and education, training of animal producers to facilitatetechnology transfer, and informing of the public of the benefits of animal biotechnology. The objective of this study was to provide areview of key reproductive technologies and economic analyses of them, followed by an outlook on the future production of cattle, goats,and sheep in Turkey. This review is an important resource for students, researchers, and producers for a better understanding and for theapplication of cutting-edge biotechnology in efficient, sustainable, and profitable livestock production.