Evaluation of dandruff in vicuñas and its influence on the textile quality of fibre

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of dandruff in the vicuña and its influence on six main textile characteristics of vicuña fibre according to sampling site, age and sex. In the linear model four factors were included: dandruff, age, sex, fleece sampling site. The study revealed a high prevalence of dandruff, 20.55% in 2017 and 22.97% in 2021. Dandruff starts on the head and spreads to the lower part of the neck, dorsal line, anterior and central saddle. A significant reduction of mean fibre diameter (MFD) was observed in adult and female vicunas with dandruff. In the saddle and rump sites, the MFD was thinner and homogeneous, except for the lower neck, belly, arm and thigh, where the fibre showed a tendency to thicken. In addition, dandruff significantly reduces the MFD in the lower neck, anterior and central saddle. Dandruff reduces MFD (-0.63 µm), SD (-0.52 µm), SF (-1.04 µm), increases CU (6.58 °/mm) and CF (0.52%), but CV is not affected. In conclusion, the presence of dandruff in vicuñas affects welfare of the animals and influences the textile qualities of the fibre, which affects trading and income of farmer communities.