General aspects of lama and alpaca nutrition

Abstract

The llama (Lama glama) and the alpaca (L. pacos) form the group known as domesticated camelids. They belong to the family Camelidae of the order Artiodactyla (ungulates). They are separated from other ruminants in the infraorder Tylopoda (footed) because they differ in gastric morphology (three compartments), with the absence of antlers or horns, and replacement of hooves with callous pads ending in claws (Novoa and Wheeler, 1984). Camellias are tall, robust and the largest of the four camelid species. They are used to transport goods in Central and South America, where their meat is also used. The leather is used for shoes, sandals and bags. Their wool fiber is long and coarse, varying in color from white to black, and is used to make various clothing items. In our country, and in Europe in general, llamas and alpacas are used for leisure purposes and even as pets, in some cases their wool being used to create clothing products.