Invited Review: Reproductive biotechnologies in Moroccan livestock: achievements, challenges, and future perspectives

Document Type : Invited Review

Authors

1 Plant, Microbial, Marine, and Precision Agriculture Biotechnology research team; Department of Life Sciences, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Larache, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 745 BP, 92004 Larache, Morocco

2 Animal Production Unit, Regional Centre for Agricultural Research of Tangier, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, 10090 Rabat, Morocco

3 TEDAEEP research team; Department of Life Sciences, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Larache, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 745 BP, 92004 Larache, Morocco

4 IAGGR, Institute of Genetic Analysis in the Royal Gendarmerie, Rabat Morocco

5 Animal Production Unit, Regional Centre Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, 10090 Rabat, Morocco

Abstract

This review explores the landscape of published research on reproductive biotechnologies in Moroccan livestock industry, with a particular focus on sheep and goats. While significant attention has been directed towards these species, a notable absence of research remains on other livestock species. Certain breeds of sheep and goats have also been insufficiently studied, revealing critical gaps in knowledge regarding reproductive interventions across Morocco's diverse livestock population. Although advancements in artificial insemination (AI) have improved outcomes in sheep through techniques such as semen storage and ovulation induction, essential methods like oocyte and embryo conservation, as well as embryo transfer, have been largely overlooked in Moroccan livestock research. This review underscores the necessity for a more inclusive approach, advocating for broader research that encompasses a variety of breeds within sheep and goats, while also extending beyond these species to include other overlooked categories of livestock. Addressing these identified gaps presents an opportunity to deepen our understanding of reproductive interventions and emphasizes the importance of establishing a cryobank to preserve genetic diversity and ensure livestock resilience in the face of climate change challenges. Recommendations outlined in this review propose a strategic roadmap that prioritizes expanding research to include overlooked species and breeds, integrating techniques such as oocyte and embryo conservation, and emphasizing the importance of embryo transfer studies in advancing reproductive biotechnologies within the Moroccan livestock industry.

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Main Subjects

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Journal of Livestock Science and Technologies
Volume 12, Issue 2
December 2024
Pages 1-11

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