Bridging Laboratory Semen Evaluation and Fertility in Sheep and Goat Reproduction

Reproductive efficiency in small ruminants is central to sustainable livestock production, genetic improvement, and animal health. In sheep and goats, assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), particularly artificial insemination, have revolutionized breeding and disease control strategies.Beyond their immediate impact on reproductive performance, these technologies contribute significantly to the dissemination of superior genetics, allowing rapid multiplication of elite sires and the preservation of valuable indigenous breeds. Artificial insemination (AI) facilitates controlled mating, reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, and enables the use of genetically superior males across wide geographic areas without the need for animal movement. Moreover, the integration of ARTs with other biotechnologies such as estrus synchronization, semen cryopreservation, and embryo transfer enhances reproductive management and herd productivity. These approaches allow better control of breeding seasons, improve kidding and lambing rates, and optimize the use of reproductive resources. However, despite these advantages, the efficiency of ARTs in small ruminants remains variable and is often lower than in other livestock species such as cattle. Factors such as species-specific reproductive physiology, seasonal breeding patterns, semen quality, and technical limitations can influence success rates.Given these considerations, ongoing research aims to optimize semen preservation techniques, improve insemination protocols, and better understand the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying fertility in small ruminants. Such efforts are essential to maximize the benefits of ARTs and ensure their successful implementation in diverse production systems. According to this, The aims is to identify reliable reproductive markers, explore the impact of environmental and nutritional factors, and link laboratory analyses with real-world reproductive performance. By uniting reproductive physiology, veterinary science, molecular biology, and livestock management, this initiative seeks to create a holistic framework for evaluating and enhancing reproductive success in small ruminant systems.This Research Topic focuses exclusively on sheep and goats, emphasizing translational studies that connect laboratory findings with practical management applications. To gather further insights into small ruminant reproductive efficiency, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:· Advanced and conventional assessments of semen and oocyte quality· Molecular, biochemical, and cellular biomarkers of gamete and fertility function· Interactions between male and female reproductive health and management factors· Nutritional, environmental, and welfare influences on reproductive success· Innovations in semen handling, preservation, and insemination techniques· Female reproductive physiology, endocrine regulation, and uterine environment· Predictive modeling of fertility outcomes from integrated laboratory data· Cross-disciplinary approaches to optimize health, management, and breeding efficiencyThis Research Topic welcomes the following article types: Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Methods, Brief Research Report, Technology and Code, and Hypothesis and Theory articles.We warmly invite collaboration among reproductive physiologists, veterinarians, molecular biologists, animal nutritionists, and producers to contribute their expertise. By combining laboratory diagnostics, field-based management insights, and a holistic understanding of animal health, this Research Topic aims to build a bridge between science and practice—advancing fertility, welfare, and productivity in sheep and goat reproduction. Topic editors: Filipp Georgijevic Savvulidi, Martin Ptacek, Larbi Allai Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79590/bridging-laboratory-semen-evaluation-and-fertility-in-sheep-and-goat-reproduction