Artificial insemination and embryo transfer in buffalo

Artificial insemination (AI) in buffalo has limited use worldwide due the difficulties in the estrus detection and in finding an adequate moment for this procedure. Therefore, an alternative to increase the number of buffalo that are inseminated is the use of protocols that allow the AI without the need of estrus detection, usually called fixed-time AI (FTAI). Follicular wave development can be controlled by treatments with GnRH or estradiol and progestogen/progesterone in combination. Treatment of buffalo with GnRH in combination with prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a) 7 d later and a second GnRH 48 h after PGF2a (known as Ovsynch) has resulted in acceptable pregnancy rates after FTAI in cycling buffalo during the breeding season. FTAI protocols using progestin devices, estradiol and eCG have resulted in synchronous onset of a new follicular wave, synchronous ovulation and consistent pregnancy rates in anestrous buffalo during the off breeding season. The combination of these protocols permits the use of AI throughout the year, obtaining conception and calving even in anestrus buffalo during the off breeding season. Superstimulation of follicular growth in buffaloes showed good response, however the embryo recovery is only 20 to 30% of ovulations. Results provide strong evidence that low embryo recoveries in buffalo may be explained by a failure of oocyte to entry the oviduct after superovulation. The calving of buffaloes produced by in vitro embryo showed that it is possible to obtain an IVF protocol to this specie. Although, more studies must be performed to increase the ET and IVF results allowing the commercial use in buffaloe