artificial insemination

artificial insemination

n. Abbr. AI

The introduction of semen into the vagina or uterus without sexual contact.

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artificial insemination

the implanting of live spermatozoa into the genital tract of the female. The diluted or otherwise treated semen is usually deposited in the body of the uterus because of the higher fertility rate obtained, but insemination into the uterine cervix or even the vagina may be practiced. Although insemination is usually carried out via the vagina transperitoneal insemination may be the technique used in animals whose anatomy precludes a satisfactory vaginal approach. See also ai.

Rectovaginal insemination in a cow. By permission from Parkinson TJ, England GCW, Arthur GH, Arthur's Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Saunders, 2001

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avian artificial insemination

is practiced extensively; it is used in turkeys where selection for heavy breast muscle has bred male turkeys unable to impregnate large numbers of females. The procedure is approximately the same as in other species with the exception that the semen must be fresh; a technique for freezing is not available.