Caracterización fenotípica y evaluación de los sistemas de producción en las llamas de las provincias de Chimborazo y Tungurahua.

Abstract

This study addressed the study of llamas in the provinces of Chimborazo and Tungurahua, sponsored the convention ESPOCH and network-CNPQ PROSUL small ruminants from Brazil. Phenotypic characterization was performed in 220 flames over 2 years by taking 15 zoometrics measures and two productive ones. These measures were analyzed according to provinces and counties studied. It also took into account the type, sex and age of the llamas and obtained a reliable database that can be used for the implementation of conservation plans, selection and breeding. Also the production systems in each area were evaluated. It was found that the average body shape of the llamas was: wither height 92.6 cm, 89.6 cm long trunk, thoracic perimeter 103.5 cm, weight 175.1 pounds and 25.1 micron fiber diameter. In the flames of Chimborazo the highest weight was 179 pounds and in Tungurahua it was observed the highest quality of 23.3 micron fiber. The higher zoometrical correlation was related to weight and the waist ircumference had a coefficient of 0.86. The measures which marked a significant difference between the two types of flames, the chacu and the k 'ara were related to their heads, necks, shank circumference, height at the withers, along the trunks and the upper thoraxes.In the province of Chimborazo, producers managed llamas in a very technical way and they were trained in a 100%. In the province of Tungurahua, 66.7% of the producers raised the llamas under intensive farming system and 16.7% received technical assistance on the proper handling of the llamas. According to data of the phenotypic variability and the productive value in llamas it is recommended to promote the conservation of the llamas, because the ignorance of these qualities, had led to growing replacement with alpacas and other similar animals. In addition, it is recommended that it is essential to make other investigations on the high nutritional llama meat and encourage its consumption in the market.