(a) Advantages of artificial insemination

It is cheaper to import semen/transport semen than the live male
Optimal use of semen/one male can be used for several females
The semen of a desired sire can be used even after death
Less space is required to keep male animals for breeding purpose
Saves the cost of maintaining males
Semen of old/injured animals/overweight sires can be used
It helps in planning breeding programme
Minimal labour is required to keep sire for
breeding purpose
Prevents the spread of sexually transmitted diseases
It aids better record keeping
There is high rate of conception and productivity/breeding efficiency


(b) Functions of the rumen

Temporary storage of food
Digestion of feed nutrients
Soften fibre/feed
Fermentation of cellulose/fibre/feed
Provides suitable environment for microbial protein synthesis
Synthesis of vitamins B complex and K
Production of enteric gas e.g CH4, CO2, H2
Production of volatile fatty acids e.g. acetate, butyrate, propionate
Absorption of certain nutrient occurs from the wall of the rumen
Assists in the act of rumination
Utilization of non-protein nitrogenous compounds
Accommodates micro-organisms
Mixing/churning of digesta/regurgitation
Serves as passage way of digesta/chyme to the reticulum