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What are the different types of Llamas?
Other than the obvious category’s of: Light wool, Medium wool, and Heavy wool… The International Llama Registry does not recognize the different Phenotypes or Fiber types of llamas at this time; however, many breeders are specializing in one or more "Types" of llamas. At the same time, there are many breeders that cross breed between the various fiber types. The following fiber definitions, will explain the different characteristics of their fiber.
Suri
-fiber should have a natural luster and hang, drape over the llamas body. This fleece forms a natural part along the spine. The fibers are grouped into a very distinctive and well defined lock structure. This lock is indicated by many individual separate locks of fiber formed at the skin, and carried out to the ends of each lock. The fleece should be lustrous, while the locks are independent an consistent in size, the degree of wave or spiral remains consistent throughout the neck and body. The fiber is characterized by absence of crimp and minimal, to no loft (straight fiber with minimal crinkle).
Lanuda-fleece is identical to Suri with the following exceptions; *Locks may be formed at or near the skin; *The fiber is characterized by a minimal to moderate amount of crinkle (curling of individual fibers but not so much in the wavy look of crimp) and lastly *The locks may vary from pencil sized to 1/2 inch in diameter. This fiber is also refered to as 'Suri-type' also called 'North American Suri.' The finished thread and fabric is very comparable to silk in softness and sheen.
Tapada - a single coated fleece that may exhibit loose waves, also known as 'Silky'. There is no discernable lock structure and the fiber will display high amount of loft and high amplitude crimp or crinkle. Excellent fiber for use to produce bulky yarns. The Argentine Tapada llamas have a distinctive body style and could become their own "Type".
Curaca- a double coat with crimp. The fiber is fluffy in appearance, with clearly visible coarse guard hair. Also known as a 'Classic'; 'light wool', 'medium wool' or some 'heavy wool'. There is limited use of the fiber from this type due to the high cost to separate the abundant guard hair from the underlying fleece.
Many people will tell you that the Lanuda/ Suri fiber gene is dominant... but that is Not true. In Llamas, there are a variety of different fiber types with complex definitions as to what they are. The fiber types have yet to be understood.
Both male and female need to carry the same fiber genes in order to succeed in reliable reproduction of any fiber type.
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| Samurai |
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<--- SURI FIBER
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| HITMAN |
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| <--- LANUDA FIBER
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| Bourbon Soldier |
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| <--- TAPADA FIBER
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| Masquerade Shadows |
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