ABSTRACT
The intensive use of artificial insemination (AI) in dairy and dual-purpose cattle has been one of the principal forces underlying the dramatic production increases and genetic progress in more highly industrialized temperate-climate countries. In beef cattle artificial insemination has been used to a lesser extent. This chapter identifies the reasons for the limited use of AI in tropical Latin America, explains the advantages of this technique and discusses alternatives for its strategic use in genetic programs. The design of an AI program must be adjusted to the production system of a specific herd. The full impact of AI can be achieved only if it is used within a genetic program and in a large population. Artificial insemination is a useful technique when used strategically in genetic programs for beef cattle. Several options might be used to combine AI with natural service to obtain optimum results in reproductive efficiency.
