3 Point Grid Test – Standard

3 Point Grid Test

Understand Your Alpaca’s True Fleece Uniformity

To effectively monitor the variation in fibre diameter across an entire alpaca fleece, a 3 Point Grid test is highly recommended. This comprehensive analysis gives breeders a clear picture of their animal’s genetic potential and fleece quality.

How It Works:

This test requires you to submit three separate fibre samples from a single alpaca, taken from the following specific locations:

• The shoulder

• The midside

• The hip (or rump)

Why is Grid Testing Important for Herd Improvement? Monitoring fleece variation is recognized as a priority for herd improvement programs. Relying on a single sample might not tell the whole story. By testing across three distinct points, you gain crucial data on the fleece’s overall uniformity.

• Processing Quality: Professional mills and end-users stress that uniformity in fibre diameter is critical for processing the fibre into a superior final product. Variation in micron and Standard Deviation (SD) can lead to inferior textile outcomes.

• Fleece Character: Uniformity in fibre diameter directly leads to more uniform fibre development and growth. This results in a closer alignment of crimp definition, giving the fleece a much more favourable character and style.

• Breeding Decisions: Because traits related to fibre diameter variation are highly heritable, identifying animals with excellent uniformity across their entire frame allows you to make strategic, data-driven breeding decisions.