‘Camelids’ Project Helps Increase Capacity of Alpaca Producers in the Colca Valley

December 6, 2024

Reduced genetic variability of alpaca populations coupled with lack of knowledge in their nutrition and genetic improvement, and low educational level of alpaca producers are significant constraints to improve the long-term sustainability of the alpaca fiber industry. The project ‘Integrating genomics, phenotyping, and nutrition strategies to enhance alpaca fiber quality and survival in the Peruvian Highlands’ supports capacity building of Colca Valley’s alpaca producers to improve their knowledge and management practices on alpaca breeding.

During October 24 and 25, project postdoctoral researchers with support from Wilfredo Quispe, AgroRural veterinarian, conducted theoretical and practical training sessions on fiber and tissue sampling and phenotypic recording (e.g., birth, genealogy, weighing, fleece weight) in the municipalities of Sibayo and Imata. In Sibayo, participants included eight alpaca producers and 17 high school students from the school Institución Educativa Agropecuario Sibayo, who actively participated in the sampling and mechanical shearing practices. In Imata, the 15 participants, who are competent alpaca breeders, shared their experiences and challenges of the activity. The session aided them in strengthening their knowledge on strategies to improve alpaca breeding and fiber.

In addition to the training sessions, participants received record books to facilitate performance monitoring of their herds. This will finally assist in having a healthy alpaca population and promote better breeding and management practices, which ultimately will foster economic growth in these communities.

Contact Details

• Rosa Cossio
• rcossio@purdue.edu
• 7654940721