Evaluation of the diameter and length of wool from Merino and Creole sheep in the department of Puno

Abstract

This study aims to determine if there is a difference between wool from Merino and Criollo sheep in the Puno region, focusing primarily on average fiber thickness (AFT) and fleece length. The sample was obtained from the Puno region, and samples were taken from different parts of the sheep's body using non-probability sampling. Analyses were performed at the textile fiber laboratory of the National University of Juliaca, using the Fiber EC instrument to measure AFT and standard methods for length. The results show that Merino wool has finer and longer fibers than Criollo wool, which aligns with findings from other studies: the best fibers are found on the back and withers, while those on the belly are thicker. Statistical analysis indicates no significant differences in DMF between the two breeds (p > 0.05), but there are clear differences in length (p < 0.001) in both sheep breeds, the variation between body areas was similar in the merino and criollo breeds, with significant differences between different parts of the sheep's body.