Question

Select the option which has the correct sequence of the steps of the artificial insemination process.
(consider that the semen needs to be transported to where the female is housed)

i. Transport
ii. Preparation for insemination
iii. Collection and storage
iv. Insemination
v. Pregnancy and birth

• A. i → ii → iii → iv →v
• B. iii → i → ii → iv → v
• C. iii → iv → ii → i → v
• D. iii → i → iv → ii → v

Answer 1

The correct option is B iii → i → ii → iv → v

Artificial insemination (AI) is a technique in which semen is collected from a male animal and introduced into the reproductive tract of the selected female by the breeder.

The collected semen can be used immediately or can be frozen and used later. The frozen semen can also be transported to the place where the female is housed.

Given below is the procedure of artificial insemination performed in case of cattle (considering that the semen needs to be transported to where the female is housed).

• Collection and storage: Semen collected from an elite bull is filled in labelled straws and stored in liquid nitrogen prior to inseminating the cow. (iii)
• Transport: The stored semen in a frozen form is transferred to the respective place where female cows are housed. (i)
• Preparation for insemination: When the frozen semen is to be used, it is first thawed in warm water (around 40° degrees Celsius). Thawing makes semen warm enough to become liquid or soft. (ii)
• Insemination: The straw containing semen is then loaded into an artificial insemination gun and the breeder inserts it into the reproductive tract of the female. When the gun is positioned properly, the semen is injected inside the cervix or uterus. (iv)
• Pregnancy: Inseminated cows are allowed to rest and are maintained well during the course of pregnancy to avoid any mishaps. (v)

Hence, option b is correct.