DairyNZ researchers have been investigating ways to improve oocyte quality, with the end goal of lifting conception rates in New Zealand dairy herds. Dairy Grazing Limited really enjoyed working with DiaryNZ during the early stages of this trial.

The key points are:

• Dairy cows experience a high rate of embryonic loss in the first week of pregnancy. Oocyte (egg) quality is an important determinant of embryo survival through this period.
• The developing oocyte is sensitive to changes within the follicle that nurtures it.
• Lactating cows with a high Fertility Breeding Value (BV) produce better oocytes and have a different follicular environment than cows with low Fertility BV.
• Improved oocyte quality and conception rate are features of cows with higher genetic fertility.
• DairyNZ’s aim is to find practical solutions for New Zealand dairy farmers to increase oocyte quality, and therefore conception rates, in their dairy cows.

Find out what they discovered and what’s next here.