The efficiency of transvaginal oocyte aspiration in Remonta Argentino jennies

• Published in: Journal of equine veterinary science 2022-06, Vol.113, p.103996, Article 103996
• Main Authors: Ferrante, AA, Arraztoa, CC, Plaza, JP, Gambini, A, Castex, C Baca, Rodriguez, MB, Brisky, O, Bruno, S, Olivieri, G, Miragaya, MH, Neild, DM
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0737-0806; 1542-7412
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.103996

The donkey population has dramatically decreased during the last years and several species and breeds are considered vulnerable or at risk of extinction. Assisted reproductive techniques, such as transvaginal oocyte aspiration (TVA) and in vitro embryo production, can be used to preserve the genetics of valuable individuals and therefore be implemented in conservation programs. In Argentina, the donkey breed "Remonta Argentina" has been used for mule production since 1920 but no studies have been performed on this breed. Our objective was to compare the efficiency of TVA between female Remonta Argentino donkeys (weight: 320-350 kg and height: 1,42 m) and mixed breed mares (weight: 400-500 kg and height: 1,60 m). TVA was performed in both species as described by Ferrante et al. (Anais do I Simpósio Internacional de Reprodução, Clínica e Cirurgia Equina do Rio de Janeiro. 2019), usingten cyclic jennies and six mares, aspirating follicles between 5 to 25 mm. Data were analysed using a Chi square test and a significance level of 0.05% (p