Economic effects of using sexed semen in Japanese dairy herds

Dairy farm agricultural income should increase when sexed semen is used instead of unsexed semen. This study simulated three scenarios: using unsexed semen (N), using X sperm of Holstein and unsexed semen of Japanese Black (H), and using X sperm of Holstein and Y sperm of Japanese Black (HJ). Two management scenarios were considered: conventional management (CONV); and the use of Japanese Black semen with surplus cows to produce F₁s where sufficient replacement female Holstein calves were obtained for maintenance (MAINT). In CONV, the agricultural incomes of H and HJ were 610 000–2 400 000 yen higher than that of N. The agricultural income increased when the difference in the prices between Holstein males and average F₁ male/female calves was 34 000–50 000 yen, that between Holstein male and female calves was 80 000–110 000 yen, and that between F₁ male and female calves was 50 000–90 000 yen. Therefore, the agricultural income can be increased by using sexed semen to select calves of a more valued breed and sex.