TLDR Improving knowledge and practices in animal fibre production is crucial to meet market demands and potentially revive natural fibres.
The document reviewed the economic and scientific aspects of animal fibre production, focusing on various fibres like wool, alpaca, and cashmere. It highlighted the decline in demand and research over the past 5-20 years, with examples from Australia and the UK. Efforts by the University of Camerino to sustain scientific partnerships and the formation of the Animal Fibre Working Group were noted. The workshop in Vilnius in 2008 discussed topics such as hair follicle biology, genetic differences, and the effects of nutrients and hormones on hair growth. The review emphasized the need for enhanced biological and ecological knowledge to improve fibre production and noted the potential revival of natural fibres due to rising energy costs. The importance of optimizing animal husbandry and breeding to meet market demands was also stressed.
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