This paper reviews genetics of fibre production and fleece characteristics in small ruminants like sheep and goats, Angora rabbits, and South American camelids. There are two main types - single-coated species that produce similar fibers from all follicles, and double-coated species that have a coarse outer coat and fine inner coat. Fiber growth patterns and genetic control of traits differ between species. The paper discusses genetic parameters of fiber production in Angora goats, rabbits, and alpacas, noting many fiber quality and quantity traits are moderately to highly heritable. It concludes that applying genetic techniques like genome sequencing and SNP chips can help improve efficiency and sustainability of small ruminant and rabbit fiber production.

Genetics of Fibre Production and Fleece Characteristics in Small Ruminants, Angora Rabbit and South American Camelids PDF

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