![]() IMV Accuread | ![]() QuickCheck | ![]() Spec 20 |
After the microscope and the incubator, probably the next most important piece of equipment is some form of counting device to establish the concentration in millions per ML (abbreviated as: number x 106/ML). There are a variety of commercially available units, some of which will also calculate the required volume to establish the correct insemination dose. Some of these that we have found useful are the "IMV Accuread" (IMV International, Minneapolis, MN USA); and the "QuickCheck" (Exodus Breeders Corporation York, PA USA). These devices all operate on the principal of a spectrophotometer, which is a machine that measures the light transference through some sort of medium. In fact, you can use a spectrophotometer to do the job. The "Spec 20" model is the standard of the industry. If you do elect to go with a spectrophotometer, you will have to get it calibrated for equine semen, and Colorado State University will do that at a minimal cost, and with little delay. |
Semen Transport Containers![]() There are several "disposable" containers available for use with transported semen as well, such as the "Clipper" (Hamilton Research Inc., South Hamilton, MA USA) and "Equine Express II" (Exodus Breeders Corporation York, PA USA). These are constructed using a cardboard box with a Styrofoam type insulation. The manufacturers recommend they be used no more than 5 times, and fewer if damage is evident. The trouble with these systems is that they tend to have poorer insulation qualities to start with, and then if they are subject to rough handling in transit, they can develop "microcrack" which may not even be visible. These microcracks then act as a heat/cold vector to the inside, and hence allow the semen temperature to drastically alter. The price certainly is a bonus initially (usually around $30, as opposed to Equitainer's $240), and some farms simply add the cost into the stud fee, and don't bother about trying to get the mare owner to return them (getting shipment containers returned can be a nuisance occasionally). Both the Clipper and the Equine Express II allow for the packaging of the semen in the insemination syringe, which may be attractive to some, but means you will have the added expense of providing the all plastic non-spermicidal syringes. If using one of the other systems, you will require baby bottle liners and elastic bands to package the semen in. A "permanent" marker is also required to write identification on the outside of the bag or the syringe. |
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