Peru's scientists carry out research to improve alpaca production

The information was confirmed by the National Council for Science and Technological Innovation (Concytec), which indicated that the research seeks to promote the alpaca sector, which is an important activity for the socio-economic development of the population in high-Andean regions.

Peru has more than 3.6 million alpacas. The breeding of these domestic camelids is one of the activities of greatest importance and with greatest impact on the socio-economic development in high-Andean areas, not only because of its capacity to adapt to rough climate conditions in areas at altitudes of up to 4,000 m.a.s.l., but because of the high-quality fiber obtained from these animals.

In addition, the alpaca meat is a food source high in protein of animal origin.

This initiative is developed by San Marcos University's Veterinary Institute for Tropical and High-Altitude Research (IVITA) in Marangani, located in Canchis Province (Cusco region).

It promotes —in situ— a simple technique and practice of artificial insemination in alpacas, by selecting the best breeds in order to improve their quality as well as increase the number of offspring and adults. 

It must be noted that one of the main alpaca centers in the country is located in Marangani.

"Our study has initially evaluated the microbiological quality of alpaca semen, which we obtained through post-copulation, in order to determine some type of contamination," said Wilber Garcia, principal researcher of the project.

(END) NDP/MAO/RMB/MVB