Alpaca
Introduction to the molecular analysis of health and breeding relevant traits in alpacas using the example of fleece type and coat colour variants
The aim of the project is, on the one hand, to gain an overview of the occurrence of characteristics or defects related to coat colour and fleece traits in the alpaca population of the German-speaking region. On the other hand, the current possibilities of identifying gene variants underlying such possibly inherited peculiarities or defects for the alpaca are to be investigated and improved. For this purpose, molecular genetic methods such as whole genome sequencing or SNP chip genotyping will be applied for the exemplary identification of gene variants influencing fleece type and coat colours. The population and molecular genetic data obtained, as well as the samples collected from selected alpacas, will also benefit potential follow-up projects for the elucidation and subsequent control of genetically determined anomalies and diseases in alpacas.
Funding: Association for the Promotion of Research in the Health Sector of Llamas and Alpacas e.V.
Duration: 10/18-10/20
Molecular genetic characterisation of the diversity of alpaca populations in German-speaking countries
The main objective of the project is to analyse for the first time the genetic diversity of alpaca populations in German-speaking countries (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) on the basis of molecular genetic data in order to determine a potential need for breeding measures to avoid health problems caused by inbreeding. The data obtained in this way will also be used to determine the proportion of crossbred animals possibly present from the two breeds Huacaya and Suri and to clarify the question of which genome regions are involved in the expression of the fleece type. In addition, the molecular genetic cause of the Blue-eyed White (BEW) phenotype in alpacas is to be elucidated, on the basis of the data obtained in the preceding project.
Funding: Association for the Promotion of Research in the Health Sector of Llamas and Alpacas e.V.
Duration: 08/21-07/23