[Thanks to Dr. Tibary for his clear comments about technology transfer, in particular relating to artificial insemination (AI) in the buffalo.

NB: There is now just one week left of this conference - due to finish on 12 August. Many of you have probably been away on holidays and have now returned invigorated and eager (!!), so we would particularly appreciate if participants (235 people are registered) would use these last opportunities to share their views and/or experiences on the appropriateness, significance and application of biotechnology options in the animal sector in developing countries. If there is sufficient activity and interest this week, we will extend the duration of the conference by one extra week..........Moderator]

A few weeks ago [4 July], I wrote about the difficulties involved in the introduction of technologies such as artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer in some areas in the world. The management aspect of these technologies is particularly important. The point concerning heat detection and use of synchronization programs raised by Ancharlie [4 August] is very critical, especially in the Buffalo.

I would like to point out just two facts: First, that although natural mating will give good fertility results, the cost of keeping a male with all the accident and health risks is not negligible and that is why AI would be recommended. The second point is that the reason synchronization schemes do not work is because most of the procedures used are "borrowed" from the research conducted on cattle, particularly Bos Taurus. There is scientific evidence that follicular activity in the buffalo is quite different from that of cattle. My recommendation is that any synchronization-AI program in buffalo should be preceded first by detailed studies on the follicular waves in this species which eventually could lead to development of fixed-time AI following a hormonal treatment protocol. Programs such as "Ovulation synchronization" and AI at specific time without heat detection could be developed. However, an economic evaluation (cost-benefit study) will have to be done.

In my opinion, most of the transfer of technology programs lack the on-site research component that will allow a better understanding of the factors involved.

My final point is that if the actors are convinced that there is a gain in such technologies, then with adequate local research funding all these problems can be alleviated. I would cite as an example the tremendous progress that was achieved in recent years in the development of embryo transfer and artificial insemination in camels in the Middle East due to the interest of these countries in these species and adequate funding of research.

Ahmed Tibary D.M.V., MS, Ph.D.
Diplomate, American College of Theriogenologists
Dept. Veterinary Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine
Washington State University
Pullman, WA 99164-6610
USA
Phone: 509-335-1963
tibary@vetmed.wsu.edu

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