The key to the success of the Ideal Alpaca Community (IAC) is the reference herdsires the IAC calls Studmaster males. The Studmaster males have been initially selected based on their pedigrees, performance, and their progeny. These elite animals are owned by participating IAC members. Each of the males is owned jointly by four farms. This shared ownership allows the males to be tested in several herds over a large number of females. The ongoing evaluation of their progeny will provide the records necessary to establish Estimated Progeny Differences (EPDs).
The Studmaster males form the foundation of the sire reference system. Each will be profiled by a sire summary. Over time, each male's progeny will define his potential. Some will turn out to be better than others. Some will be superior for one trait, but not another. As the EPDs accumulate, the picture will become clear.
Replacement sires from the participating herd will be progeny-tested and the best of these will become new Studmaster males. As these genes are spread across the entire membership, the herd will become more uniform and superior, both in phenotype and in genotype.
Our members believe that the following principles are important to the success of their individual herds:
- Breed standards are an integral part of defining elite alpacas.
- Each breeder should have a clear vision of the ideal alpaca type. See Ideal Alpacas: From Myth to Reality.
- The alpacas' primary purpose is as a fleece animal. The ultimate value of the breed is based on the inherent genetic ability of the alpaca to produce a fine, luxurious fleece for use in high-fashion garments.
- By improving alpacas to their full genetic potential and making them a more productive fiber-bearing animal, the breed will be more valuable to their shepherds and be better cared for over time.
- A thorough knowledge of bloodlines, classic livestock breeding theory, and an understanding of genetic selection techniques are prerequisites of success in the alpaca market.
Contact a member farm today to learn more or some of the Studmaster males or their progeny.
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