Suri fleece / Huacaya fleece variation (TRPV3-related) - Alpaca

Suri fleece in alpacas

This genetic test examines the TRPV3 variant c.1423G>T associated with the Suri fleece type in alpacas. Alpacas are usually described by two main fleece types: Huacaya and Suri. Huacaya fleece is typically compact, soft and clearly crimped. Suri fleece is longer, straighter, more lustrous and more often falls in separate locks.

What makes Suri recognizable?

• Long, hanging locks instead of a compact, woolly fleece.
• Less crimp than Huacaya, giving the fibre a straighter fall.
• More lustrous appearance, often with a silky effect.
• Variable fibre quality, because structure, density and final appearance are also influenced by other factors.

The tested variant is a stop-gain change that probably shortens the TRPV3 protein. The genetic data support a dominant contribution to the Suri phenotype, but visible fleece type, fibre quality and breeding value still depend on the wider genetic and breeding context.

Why this test is useful

The result helps breeders include Suri-associated genetic information in mating choices, breeding-animal selection and interpretation of offspring. This is especially useful when young animals are still difficult to assess, when the fleece type appears mixed or when appearance and pedigree do not fully clarify which genetic factor is present.