Alpaca news

There are major gaps in knowledge about many aspects of artificial breeding in alpacas. The primary aims of this project were to (1) develop and establish the technology for collection, processing and preservation of alpaca semen, and (2) develop and establish the technology for insemination of alpaca semen. These were identified as objectives in the RIRDC Rare Natural Animal Fibre Research and Development Plan 2003 – 2008.

The outcomes were an optimum method for semen collection and AI of alpacas under Australian conditions, the education of alpaca breeders in the benefits of using AI technology in their own herds to hasten improvement of fibre quality via a presentation at the Australian Alpaca Association Inc (AAA). National Conference and publication of an article in the AAA Conference proceedings, and the production of a manual that can be used by small ruminant artificial breeding centres and practising veterinary practitioners to provide commercial AI programs to alpaca breeders.

This project made considerable advances in collection, liquefaction and preservation of alpaca semen, demonstrated the limitations imposed by the viscous seminal plasma and highlighted the need for future research into seminal plasma viscosity, which remains the key problem for the development of AI technology. The efficient and reliable methods for liquid storage and cryopreservation of alpaca semen will also hasten the commercialisation of AI. Overall, the knowledge gained during this project has made a significant contribution to the scientific field, and the results challenge many previously held perceptions associated with the preservation of alpaca semen.

Report authors:  Morton, K, Vaughan, J, and Maxwell, W

The full report can be downloaded at https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/downloads/08-057.pdf