At Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd, we take pride in using advanced artificial insemination (AI) techniques to provide high-quality pig breeds to our customers. AI has revolutionized the swine industry, enabling the controlled improvement of genetic quality, higher reproduction efficiency, and a significant reduction in disease transmission.

This article will walk you through the entire process, focusing on the critical steps from semen collection to semen injection into the sow, with a special emphasis on semen quality testing.

1. Semen Collection

The first step in artificial insemination is collecting semen from the boar. At Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd, we use specialized equipment to ensure a safe and hygienic collection process.

We start by using either an boar dummy or an electro-ejaculation technique, depending on the boar and the farm’s needs. The collection area is sanitized to prevent contamination of the semen sample. The semen is carefully collected into sterile containers that will later be used for testing and storage.

A farmer assistant looking after a boar mounting on boar dummy

2. Semen Testing and Quality Control

Once the semen is collected, it is immediately taken to the laboratory for quality testing. This is a crucial step to ensure that the semen is viable and capable of fertilizing the sow. The testing focuses on three key parameters:

  • Motility: The ability of the sperm to move efficiently. A higher percentage of motile sperm increases the chances of successful fertilization.
  • Concentration: The number of sperm cells in the sample, ensuring there is a sufficient quantity for fertilization.
  • Morphology: The shape and structure of the sperm cells, ensuring there are no abnormalities.

We use a microscope to assess the semen’s quality. A small sample is placed on a glass slide, and we look for healthy, active sperm cells. We monitor their movement and note any irregularities that could impact fertility.

Boar semen under microscope

 

Semen Testing Process Under the Microscope:

  • Step 1: Place a drop of semen on a microscope slide.
  • Step 2: Use a high-powered microscope to observe the motility of the sperm. We aim for over 70% of the sperm to show forward progression.
  • Step 3: Count the sperm concentration and check for any abnormal forms.

3. Semen Handling and Storage

After testing, the semen is diluted using a special extender solution that helps maintain the sperm’s viability during storage. We store the semen in sterile, temperature-controlled containers, ensuring it remains viable until it’s ready for insemination.

Containers for semen are fully prepared and set for immediate use whenever needed.

4. Artificial Insemination Procedure

When the sow is ready for insemination, the semen is thawed and prepared for injection. The process of insemination is done with utmost care to ensure successful fertilization:

  • Step 1: The sow is prepared by gently restraining her in a standing position.
  • Step 2: The insemination tool is inserted into the sow’s cervix, and the semen is slowly injected. We ensure the tool is positioned correctly to maximize the chances of successful insemination.

 

5. Ensuring Successful Fertilization

To guarantee successful fertilization, we closely monitor the sow’s response post-insemination. We look for signs of estrus (heat) and carefully track any changes in behavior that may indicate pregnancy.

Sow in post insemination phase

Conclusion

At Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd, our commitment to quality in the AI process—from semen collection to fertilization—is key to providing our customers with superior pig breeds. We ensure that every step of the process is carried out with precision, testing each sample to guarantee optimal semen quality and increase the chances of successful fertilization.

Artificial insemination is not just about advancing technology; it’s about creating value for our customers and improving the overall efficiency of pig breeding in Rwanda.