WHEN TO USE SEXED SEMEN ON HEIFERS

Gender-biased or sexed semen is relatively a new technology that has proven to produce a higher proportion of female calves than conventional semen (DeJarnette et al., 2009). Because female calves are more valuable than male calves, the use of sexed semen is economically attractive, although the insemination with sexed semen compromises fertility (DeJarnette et al., 2009). Consequently, sexed semen would have an increased proportion of females with a lower conception rate (CR). In addition to sex ratios and CR, there are a number of other factors that impact the economics of sexed semen reproductive programs. Therefore, the decision of where to use sexed semen should be an economic one based on a careful analysis of the balance between additional expenses and potential revenues.