Efecto del método de esquila y sexo en las alpacas “Vicugna pacos” sobre la calidad de la fibra.

Abstract

This research aimed to evaluate the impact of the shearing method and sex of the alpaca "Vicugna pacos" on fiber quality through experimental research. This research included four treatments: manual shearing + females, manual shearing + males, mechanical shearing + females, and mechanical shearing + males. Each treatment had a five-time replication process, using samples from shorn fleece as experimental units. Statistical methods included the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Kruskal-Wallis test for group distribution comparisons. The study assessed physical fiber properties (diameter, length, number of crimps, colorimetry, and usable fleece weight) and chemical properties (fat content) and conducted an economic evaluation. The results determined the inexistence of statistically significant differences between treatments regarding physical fiber properties. Any observed differences were attributed to diet, genetics, and environment. Sensory evaluations categorized the fibers as "very soft" and "non-itchy." From an economic perspective, costs were higher for both mechanical and manual shearing, depending on the size of the alpaca herd.