Reproduction and In Vitro Technologies of Swamp Buffalo; Past, Present, and Future

Abstract

Swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis carabanensis) has long been integral to agriculture and has served as an essential source of food security in Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand. Despite their economic and cultural significance, swamp buffaloes have been at risk of declining populations due to low fertility rates. This review provides a comprehensive overview of swamp buffalo reproduction, examining past and present practices, identifying gaps in the literature, and exploring potential future directions for improving reproductive efficiency. This examination investigates the domestic buffalo's reproductive anatomy and physiology, providing a comparative analysis among ruminants. Recent advancements in assisted reproductive technologies offer substantial opportunities to enhance fertility, but the conception rate is still low (30 to 50%) in this species. Research on the cellular and molecular aspects of implantation and uterine receptivity in buffalo is still limited despite its critical importance for improving fertility, considering the high incidence of pregnancy loss during early gestation. An in vitro endometrial cell culture system offers insight into the maternal-embryonic crosstalk during this critical period. Understanding these intricate mechanisms is crucial for developing more effective reproductive strategies and accelerating genetic enhancement, thereby enhancing fertility rates and supporting the sustainability of swamp buffalo populations.