ABSTRACT
Embryo transfer is greatly influencing the purebred beef industry, as evidenced by higher individual prices paid for donor cows. The greatest advantage to embryo transfer beyond its genetic implications may well be the increased management necessary to accomplish embryo transfer. One of the more exciting aspects of immediate application in embryo transfer would be sexed semen and (or) accurate sexing of embryos. Research into embryo transfer and microsurgery may yield many more unique applications for genetic improvement. Regulation by individual breed associations will probably have some control or influence on embryo transfer. An important economic consideration in the rapid adoption of embryo transfer has been the IRS and some apparent tax advantages. Should successful frozen embryo technology and sexing occur; a major effect will be seen in commercial beef herds. Commercial cattlemen could easily see the economic benefits of all male calves of controlled breeding.
