Ai Services, Northern Ireland’s leading livestock genetics company is marking an industry first by harnessing the power of AI (Artificial Intelligence) to boost Ai (Artificial Insemination) production at its Antrim-based bull stud and laboratory.
The project is part-funded by InterTrade Ireland’s Boost Programme and is in collaboration with The Walton Institute @ South East Technological University, Waterford. It will lead to the development of a bespoke software package to optimise bull semen quality and productivity.
By utilising the very latest AI and machine learning technologies, Ai Services will, for the first time, capture, interrogate and analyse vital animal management and environmental data relating to the bull semen production process. This includes monitoring and profiling each of the individual bulls at its Smart Stud in Co. Antrim – tracking everything from movement and digestive habits to sleep patterns and jumping behaviours.
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Beyond the benefits of maximising herd productivity, the AI-led project has the potential to address the future challenge of feeding the world’s growing population – with global demand for animal protein projected to double by 2050.
To lead the project, Ai Services has appointed software engineer and data integration expert, Sean Webb. With a Masters in Software & Electronic Systems Engineering, Sean brings a new dimension to the team, fully utilising the power of data to take genetics and livestock breeding to a new level of understanding.
“I’m passionate about technology, AI and data, and its potential to solve issues by creating practical, user-tested solutions. I’m delighted to bring this thinking to the world of livestock breeding and genetics,” said Sean.
“Pedigree bulls are complex and unique. No two animals are the same with each displaying different personalities and behaviours. Likewise, each is affected differently by the many environmental and husbandry variables which impact on semen quality and quantity, such as temperature, daylight, humidity and even bedding or handling preferences.”
“To date, the level of scientific data regarding this very ‘individual’ aspect of livestock management and its impact on both semen production and quality is limited. Not only has Ai Services identified this gap but is taking a global lead through the roll-out of this ground-breaking project.”
By collecting and analysing this data, the experts at Ai Services can optimise bull management and adapt environmental conditions to best suit each animal.
The goal is to transform the way bull semen is produced, driving production efficiencies, reducing wastage at the semen processing stage, and boosting stud output.
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The initiative is part of a wider £3.5million investment programme which will see the opening of a world-class ‘Smart’ Stud, laboratory and semen handling facility at Ai Services’ Ballycraigy site.
Endorsing Sean’s input and the value it will bring to the future of genetics and livestock breeding, Dr Debbie McConnell, Principal Group Scientist, Ai Services said: “Science and data is absolutely essential to genetic development. We’ve seen how simple sensors have revolutionised livestock management practices on commercial farms and by introducing the latest technologies and data expertise we can be at the cutting edge of new developments in semen production.”
Thomas Walsh, Technical Lead, Walton Institute added: “I’m delighted to be leading this project on behalf of the Walton Institute. Working alongside Ai-Services, we are leveraging our systems development, IoT and AI expertise to accelerate the creation of what promises to be a best-in-class, high-impact service.”
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