Animal cloning is a reproductive technique that makes it possible to produce individuals that are practically genetically identical. This technique has been used in various fields, such as medicine, agriculture, and livestock (research). In the field of equestrian sport, animal cloning is becoming an increasingly popular tool.
At Ovohorse, we are an equine reproduction clinic that also offers animal cloning services.
Recently, “Otterongo Alpha Z”, a cloned horse, won the CSI5*-W 1.55m Grand Prix in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “Otterongo Alpha Z” is a 9-year-old KWPN horse. The original horse, “Otterongo van de Kopshoeve”, had an outstanding sporting career. He won numerous Grand Prix competitions, including a 4th place at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
The cloning of “Otterongo van de Kopshoeve” was carried out by a team of scientists from Utrecht University, the Netherlands. The team used a cloning technique called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). This technique consists of transferring the nucleus of a somatic cell from an animal into an enucleated recipient oocyte. The resulting embryo is then transferred into a recipient mare.
The clone of “Otterongo van de Kopshoeve”, named “Otterongo Alpha Z”, has proven to be a horse of great quality.
Cloning makes it possible to create horses that are practically genetically identical to other highly valuable horses. This can help breeders and riders produce horses with the desired characteristics for equestrian sports.