Effects of Shipping and Heat Stress on Embryonic Mortality in Cattle

Nov 09, 2020

By Robin Salverson

Embryonic loss is the greatest economic loss in the cow/calf industry, affecting number of cows carrying to term and percent calf crop weaned.

Fertilization rates are usually between 90% and 100% when semen is present at ovulation. Fertilization usually takes place, but conception rates (number of animals that conceive divided by number of animals inseminated) are usually around 70% for natural service or artificial insemination.

Although nature (poor oocyte quality, disease, chromosomal abnormalities, etc.) contributes much of this loss, management practices can also increase embryonic mortality. Stress, particularly heat and shipping stress, can be detrimental to embryos and decrease pregnancy rates.

Source : sdstate.edu

Video: Industry–University Collaborations in Swine Research - Dr. Jordan Gebhardt and Matt Einarson

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Jordan Gebhardt from Kansas State University and Matt Einarson from SAM Nutrition explore how academic–industry partnerships are driving innovation in swine nutrition. They share how collaborations support graduate training, create credibility, and translate research into practical strategies for producers. Discover real trial outcomes, sustainability initiatives, and why bridging science with industry is essential for the future. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The partnership with universities allows research to stay current, answering real questions that nutritionists and producers are asking today." - Dr. Jordan Gebhardt

Meet the guest: Dr. Jordan Gebhardt / jordan-gebhardt-9a6b4b120 , Associate Professor of Swine Production at Kansas State University, combines expertise in veterinary medicine and applied swine nutrition to improve herd health and productivity through research and student training. Matt Einarson / matt-einarson-7a00a123 , Vice President of Sales and Business Development North America at SAM Nutrition, brings more than two decades of leadership in global agribusiness, specializing in strategy, market development, and feed innovation.