A Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation System with Greater Emphasis on Molecular Genetics

Bull is known to be half of the herd. As bull contribute large number of progenies to the next generation as compared to females so determining the potential fertility of the bull is much more important than determining the fertility of any individual cow. It becomes critical to study and analyse the breeding potential of a bull before breeding season for getting best out of progeny. Breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) is a practical method to predict bull’s potential fertility. Evaluation should be conducted on every bull at least 30–60 days before each breeding season to allow enough time for replacement of deferred or unsatisfactory bulls. Parameters have been shown to be the most reliable and repeatable in nature and consist of (A) History; (B) Physical examination; (C) Measurement of scrotal size; and (D) Semen evaluation for sperm motility (movement) and morphology (structure and shape). Along with all these the accessory sex glands such as vesicular glands, ampullae, and prostate should be looked for evidence of inflammation, adhesions, fibrosis or enlargements. New techniques such as Ultrasonography, Pelvic measurement, Trichomoniasis testing, Virgin Heifer test can also be used for BSE. Molecular genetics also plays an important role as, with new advancements it helps us to investigate and identify major genes which are responsible for various diseases in animals. Genes affecting bull fertility can also be identified. Molecular tools such as RFLP, RAPD, Mini-satellites, AFLP’s can also be used. BSE every year will help farmer in identifying infertile and subfertile and gain maximum from dairy farming. Keywords: Breeding, pathological condition, bull, molecular genetics Cite this Article Deswal S, Attri K. A bull breeding soundness evaluation system with greater emphasis on molecular genetics. Research and Reviews: Journal of Dairy Science and Technology . 2018; 7(2): 15–20p