Editorial: Advancing animal reproduction: Artificial Intelligence, precision technologies and reproductive biotechnologies

Abstract

Reproductive biotechnologies have revolutionized animal breeding programs over the last 50 years, continuing to be the driving force behind improvements in reproductive performance. The use of nanotechnology, precision technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) are still in their infancy in animal reproduction, but their application to breeding programs are steadily increasing as the world finds new ways to promote sustainability, enhance conservation, and ensure food security for decades to come, particularly under climate change challenges. This research topic presents recent research conducted across the various types of technologies available in animal reproduction, including established and emerging livestock industries as well as conservation breeding programs. Seven papers included in this research topic explore the use of various technologies, from reproductive biotechnologies through precision technologies and AI, showcasing the diversity of research across species.The bulk of research programs, particularly for new and emerging activities, heavily focus on improvements to reproductive biotechnologies, adapting methods already in use in established industries. However, there is now a shift toward the use of multiple types of advanced approaches on improvements of animal reproduction.