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The field of animal reproduction combines basic biological science with animal husbandry practices. Reproductive organ physiology and function, gameteproduction and manipulation, embryological development and its associated biotechnological applications have all attracted the attention of researchers. Knowledge of animal reproduction must continue to advance in order to meet the needs of animal producers wishing to improve the genetics of their flocks and herds in their efforts to maximize production yield. Traditionnally, only the transport of live animals provided access to individuals of highly sought genetic value or new races. The stress to which animals are subjected by travel, the possibility of exhaustion, the inability to maintain adequate access to water or food,even inadequate air circulation all increased the risk of animal diseases. Techniques such as freezing sperm, artificial insemination, in vitro fertilizationand embryo transfer have facilitatedthe exchange of genetic material among different producers and different countries. Compared to the transport of live animals, these techniques have helped to prevent the transmission and spreadof diseases by facilitating the monitoring of male breeding stock health and by ensuring bettercontrol of sperm or embryo quality and hygiene.
