Alpacas VicWest

Alpacas VicWest
origin of the National Most Valuable commercial Fleece
2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009 & the International Supreme Champion Suri Fleece 2008

The Western Victorian region of the Australian Alpaca Association Ltd,  ABN 30 067 146 481

Research

Alpacas VicWest has a strong interest in research being undertaken into alpacas and alpaca fleece.  The region maintains close links with the Centre for Material and Fibre Innovation at Deakin University.

Dr Bruce McGregor
Deakin University

As animals age, their fibre tends to become ‘stronger’ - the diameter of the secondary fibres, the important fibres in the fleece, becomes larger.  This is known as “blow-out”.  The region is interested in research which will assist its members to identify the causes and critical elements in this blow-out.

Dr Belinda Appleton
Felicity Jackling - PhD student
University of Melbourne

“Undesirable traits in alpacas”

This research investigates the genetic basis of a number of congenital abnormalities in alpacas. The incidence of congenital disorders in alpacas is significantly higher than for other domesticated livestock and may be the result of a history of population bottlenecks in worldwide alpaca populations. The ultimate aim of this project is the development of genetic tests for these disorders that can be used to improve the national alpaca herd.  

This research projects seeks contributions of alpaca tissue from affected alpacas.

For more information  about the project and how you might participate see the project introduction or
contact Belinda or Felicity