International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 305-314 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 310 personnel to perform these techniques is also a limiting factor, as the quality of support services such as artificial insemination and disease control directly influences fertility outcomes (Bm, 2019; Zicarelli, 2019). Furthermore, the adaptation of technologies from cattle to buffaloes requires a deep understanding of buffalo biology and reproductive physiology, which may not be readily available in all regions. Thus, the lack of infrastructure and technical expertise can hinder the widespread adoption of reproductive technologies in buffalo farming. 6.3 Policy and regulatory environment The policy and regulatory environment can either facilitate or impede the adoption of reproductive technologies in buffaloes. In some regions, there may be a lack of supportive policies that encourage the use of advanced reproductive techniques. For example, the absence of incentives for genetic improvement programs or subsidies for technology adoption can slow down progress (Nanda et al., 2019). Additionally, regulatory barriers related to the use of certain hormones or genetic materials can restrict the application of these technologies (D’Occhio et al., 2020). Effective policy frameworks that promote research, development, and dissemination of reproductive technologies are essential to enhance their adoption and improve reproductive efficiency in buffaloes. In summary, the adoption of reproductive technologies in water buffalo is influenced by socio-economic factors, infrastructure and technical expertise requirements, and the policy and regulatory environment. Addressing these challenges through targeted interventions and supportive policies can enhance the reproductive performance and economic viability of buffalo farming systems. 7 Challenges and Limitations in Optimizing Reproductive Technologies 7.1 Biological constraints specific to water buffalo Water buffaloes exhibit unique biological challenges that impact the optimization of reproductive technologies. One significant issue is the difficulty in estrus detection, which leads to low reproductive efficiency and complicates the timing of artificial insemination (AI) (Atabay et al., 2020; Neglia et al., 2020). Additionally, water buffaloes have variable estrous cycles and reduced estrous behavior, which are further complicated by reproductive seasonality, resulting in higher incidences of anestrus and increased embryonic mortality during nonbreeding seasons. The low antral follicle populations and high levels of follicular atresia also contribute to the inefficiency of in vivo embryo production (Baruselli et al., 2020). 7.2 Technological barriers and gaps Technological barriers in optimizing reproductive technologies in water buffalo include the limited efficiency of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) and the challenges associated with ovum pick-up (OPU) (Baruselli et al., 2018; Baruselli et al., 2020). The low blastocyst development rates in prepubertal buffaloes further constrain the widespread implementation of these technologies (Figure 3) (Currin et al., 2021). Moreover, the need for precise synchronization of follicular development and ovulation to apply assisted reproductive technologies (ART) consistently remains a challenge. The current protocols for estrus synchronization and ovulation induction, although adapted from cattle, still yield variable results in buffaloes (Warriach et al., 2015). 7.3 Economic and logistical challenges Economic and logistical challenges also play a significant role in the optimization of reproductive technologies in water buffalo. The cost of implementing advanced reproductive technologies such as OPU and IVEP can be prohibitive, especially for smallholder farmers who dominate buffalo farming in developing countries (Warriach et al., 2015). Additionally, the need for specialized equipment and trained personnel to perform these procedures adds to the logistical complexity (Baruselli et al., 2020). The variability in reproductive outcomes due to factors such as season, age, and individual donor variation further complicates the economic viability of these technologies (Currin et al., 2022). In summary, optimizing reproductive technologies in water buffalo is hindered by biological constraints, technological barriers, and economic and logistical challenges. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes improving estrus detection, enhancing the efficiency of ART protocols, and making these technologies more accessible and cost-effective for farmers.
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