When we use OPU-ICSI techniques to obtain offspring from mares and stallions of high genetic value, we increase their reproductive efficiency. This means that we obtain a greater number of embryos than with conventional reproduction techniques. An opportunity to secure the future of your horses’ genetics forever and with total viability.
Once the embryos have been obtained after the technique, they are vitrified, thus creating a genetic bank with maximum durability. All until the process ends with the birth of these foals with elite genetics, although there are other routes and alternatives along the way until birth.
With vitrified embryos, you can decide which option best suits your needs or your breeding project. This is when questions and concerns arise about which of the options are most beneficial: would it be better to transfer to recipient mares now? Is it preferable to keep them in the genetic bank and transfer at another time? Or what if they are sold to obtain quicker economic returns?
Below, we will provide some details on the different possibilities and routes available to make the best decision: transfer, store, or sell.
Transfer vitrified embryos
The significant impact that horses, especially sport horses, have makes this option appealing for those dedicated to equine reproduction. If you want to see the results of your breeding project as soon as possible, this is your most effective option: transfer the embryos at the best time of year to ensure the birth of foals in the best conditions… Or as soon as possible if what you want is for the foals (future champions) to be born quickly.
This option is ideal for professional breeders or even for athletes who want to produce and train a horse from scratch, but with the certainty and security of its genetic value.
Store embryos indefinitely
This second path comes into play when there are no immediate plans for transfer or if you want to preserve the genetics of your elite mares for the future.
For example, when the first foals from this mare begin to stand out in sport, or the mare herself, to whom you may have performed OPU-ICSI before starting her sports career or before a sale, that is, when the mare has good results.
In these cases, the best option will be to store the vitrified embryos. This storage option allows you to evaluate and adjust the right time to use them in the future, ideal for breeders who want to preserve the genetics of their best mares, ensuring their offspring even when the mare dies, thus safeguarding the future of the stud farm.
It is also a good option for athletes who do not wish to have offspring from their mares at the moment but do not want to lose the chance to have foals with their genetics.
Sell embryos
This option is considered when the embryo owner seeks to obtain short-term financial returns.
Different solutions, same value
Each stored embryo is an opportunity of genetic and economic value in the medium and long term, depending on your preferences. Therefore, it will be important to set a goal with these embryos in order to make the best possible decision that brings you the most satisfaction.
We encourage you, if you have vitrified embryos, to consult with your trusted veterinarian and with equine genetics experts so that they can advise and guide you in your choice.
If you want to learn more about the OPU-ICSI technique or about what to do with vitrified embryos, click here and get in touch with the specialist professionals at Ovohorse.
