The evaluation of an artificial intelligence system for estrus detection in sows

Abstract

Background Good estrus detection in sows is essential to predict the best moment of insemination. Nowadays, a technological innovation is available that detects the estrus of the sow via connected sensors and cameras. The collected data are subsequently analyzed by an artificial intelligence (AI) system. This study investigated whether such an AI system could support the farmer in optimizing the moment of insemination and reproductive performance. M&M Three Belgian sow farms (A, B and C) where the AI system was installed, participated in the study. The reproductive cycles (n = 6717) of 1.5 years before and 1.5 years after implementation of the system were included. Parameters included: (1) farrowing rate (FR), (2) percentage of repeat-breeders (RB), (3) farrowing rate after first insemination (FRFI) and (4) number of total born piglets per litter (NTBP). Also, data collected by the system were analyzed to describe the weaning-to-estrus interval (WEI), estrus duration (ED) and the number of inseminations used per estrus. This dataset included 2261 cycles, collected on farms B and C. Results In farm A, all parameters significantly improved namely FR + 4.3%, RB − 3.75%, FRFI + 6.2% and NTBP + 1.06 piglets. In farm B, the NTBP significantly decreased with 0.48 piglets, but in this farm the insemination dose was too low (0.8 × 109 spermatozoa per dose). In farm C, only the NTBP significantly increased with 0.45 piglets after the implementation of the system. The WEI as determined by the system varied between 78 and 90 h, being 10–20 h shorter in comparison with the WEI as determined by the farmer. The ED, determined by the system ranged from 48 to 60 h, and was less variable as compared to the ED as assessed by the farmer. The mean number of inseminations per estrus remained similar over time in farm B whereas it decreased over time from approximately 1.6–1.2 in farm C. Conclusion The AI system can help farmers to improve the reproductive performance, assess estrus characteristics and reduce the number of inseminations per estrus. Results may vary between farms as many other variables such as farm management, genetics and insemination dose also influence reproductive performance.

Technological Tools and Artificial Intelligence in Estrus Detection of Sows—A Comprehensive Review

“…Those field experiments found that estrus signs can be detected about 10-20 h earlier by the SSB system than by manual systems. They concluded by stating the use of SSB improves farrowing rate and litter size and decreases repeat breeding rate [27].…”

“…The average duration of a sow's estrous cycle is 21 days, which may vary from 17 to 25 days depending on breed and individual differences [26]. The standing heat is variable, lasting from 24 to 96 h, and the average duration is 40 to 60 h [15,27]. Once two-thirds of estrus has passed, ovulation takes place [28,29].…”

Deciphering Estrus Expression in Gilts: The Role of Alternative Polyadenylation and LincRNAs in Reproductive Transcriptomics

“…Prolonged and apparent estrus expression is vital for timely insemination, while concealed or less apparent estrus expression leads a lower conception rate [ 3 ]. Additionally, the absence of estrus expression results in the culling of a significant number of gilts from the breeding herd, posing one of the major unresolved challenges in the pig farming industry [ 4 ]. During estrus, female pigs exhibit various signs, including vaginal mucus secretion, vulva reddening, and swelling, indicating ovulation and readiness for mating [ 5 , 6 ].…”