In this exclusive interview, we speak with Mr. Andre Engler, a seasoned expert with over three decades of experience in the duck breeding industry. Having spent 32 years at ORVIA, one of the leading companies in ducks and geese genetics with 60% market shares in Europe, Mr. Engler shares his invaluable insights on the evolution of duck breeding practices, current challenges, and future trends.

In the ever-evolving field of animal reproduction, technology continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing breeding success. This blog post explores a recent case study that highlights the potential of computer-aided semen analysis (CASA) in dog breeding programs, shedding light on how this technology is shaping the future of canine reproduction.

In 2018, a study published in the prestigious scientific journal Reproduction in Domestic Animals by researchers from the Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses at Vetmeduni Vienna, Austria, shed light on the effectiveness and reliability of the Ongo Semen Analyzer for equine semen analysis. This study has implications for veterinarians, breeders, and semen collection centers, as it validates the use of mobile Computer Aided Semen Analysis (CASA) devices in the field.

In recent years, the growing concern over microplastics and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) in our environment has extended beyond the realm of human health, with emerging research highlighting their detrimental effects on livestock reproduction. As animal breeders and veterinary reproduction specialists, understanding the implications of these tiny plastic particles on the fertility and breeding success of our animals is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of our practices.

The study exemplifies how advanced analytical tools, such as the Ongo Portable Semen Analyzer, can enhance the accuracy and reliability of toxicity assessments, paving the way for more informed decisions in product safety and environmental health.

Artificial insemination (AI) is a vital tool in modern equine breeding programs, offering a myriad of genetic possibilities and logistical advantages. However, the success of AI heavily relies on the quality of the semen used. An important study assessing the quality and fertility of cooled-shipped equine semen from commercial semen collection centers across Europe sheds light on key factors influencing AI outcomes. Here's what breeders and veterinarians need to know.

Recent developments by ONGO Vettech have streamlined and improved semen quality assessments in breeding animals. The company's new product, the Ongo Vision, is a portable device that brings Computer Aided Semen Analysis (CASA) technology from laboratories to breeding farms. This facilitates quick and accurate assessments of sperm quality, including sperm count and motility. Tamás Bábel, managing director of ONGO Vettech, reports that the product is attracting interest from multiple countries.

Compared to subjective manual techniques, CASA offers improved accuracy, standardization, and higher throughput capabilities. While providing clear benefits over traditional methods, CASA technology continues to evolve with several promising innovations on the horizon.