A new genetic test that can help identify the genetic colour pattern found in an alpaca\u2019s coat has been developed by Â鶹ֱ²¥ researchers.<\/p>\n
The research, published in Animal Genetics<\/em>, discovered a new test that could identify the mutation they found in the KIT<\/em> gene in an alpaca\u2019s DNAwhich could allow breeders to specifically breed the highly sought-after \u2018classic grey\u2019 alpaca more efficiently.<\/p>\n Lead researcher Dr Kylie Munyard, from Curtin\u2019s School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, said the development of the genetic test would allow alpaca breeders to better select for a desired pattern and efficiently breed for this pattern.<\/p>\n \u201cThe \u2018classic grey\u2019 colour pattern is highly sought-after in the stud animal and fibre markets, but is known to be linked with the \u2018blue-eyed white\u2019 colour pattern, which is less desirable for some alpaca breeders because of possible health defects,\u201d Dr Munyard said<\/p>\n \u201cThrough our research, we were able to identify a genetic marker responsible for the \u2018classic grey\u2019 colour pattern in alpacas, and by using molecular techniques, we were able to develop a rapid and reliable method of identifying the mutation from a small DNA sample.<\/p>\n \u201cThe most important aspect of this discovery is that we can now identify the so-called \u2018cryptic grey\u2019 alpacas that are too pale for the pattern to be seen. This will allow breeders to select for, or against, classic grey and \u2018blue-eyed white\u2019 in their herds.\u201d<\/p>\n Dr Munyard said the discovery had important implications for the alpaca industry on a global scale.<\/p>\n \u201cBy using this new testing tool, breeders and farmers have the opportunity to test white or light fawn alpacas, or those with uncertain patterns, for the mutation found in \u2018classic grey\u2019 alpacas, which is also present in \u2018blue-eyed white\u2019 alpacas. This will provide them with better information with which to make their breeding decisions,\u201d Dr Munyard said.<\/p>\n \u201cThe discovery of this new mutation will provide further support to breeders around the world and we look forward to working alongside the alpaca industry to implement this new product.\u201d<\/p>\n The project was funded by the Morris Animal Foundation<\/a> in Denver, USA. The research team has submitted a provisional patent application for the genetic test.<\/p>\n Morris Animal Foundation Chief Scientific Officer Dr Janet Patterson-Kane said it was a great result with such practical use.<\/p>\n \u201cBeyond the aesthetic benefits, we are proud to support a project that can help address the issues of deafness and neonatal death that are associated with this mutation,\u201d Dr Patterson-Kane said.<\/p>\n