Artificial insemination of pigs in Uruguay

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out in order to study the eventual implantation of a program of artificial insemination (AI) in pigs using fresh semen, diluted and preserved at room temperature, under farm conditions in Uruguay, during the years 1981 to 1984.

High farrowing rates were obtained after AI (70% after 1 AI Heat and 81% after 2 AI/Heat). These percentages were similar to those obtained by natural service with the same boars (79 % with 1 mating/heat and 86 % with 2 matings/heat). No differences were noticed in litter size or weight of born piglets/litter, between AI or naturally mated females.

Semen preserved with the diluent applied in this trial could be used within 60 h with at least 60 % of farrowing rate being obtained. It is concluded that under good farm conditions of management and nutrition, the results obtained by the use of AI with boar fresh semen, is equivalent to those achieved with natural mating.