The true stomach of ruminants; in camelids the equivalent is the third compartment (C3).
Acidosis
A dangerous drop in fore-stomach pH after eating too much grain. Learn more →
ADF
Acid detergent fiber — the least digestible fiber fraction in forage tests. Lower ADF = more digestible hay. Learn more →
Agouti
A gene controlling the distribution of dark (eumelanin) and red-brown (pheomelanin) pigment; it plays a major role in alpaca fleece color. Learn more →
Agritourism
Farm visits, alpaca walks and experiences offered to the public. Learn more →
Alarm call
A loud, high-pitched, braying call alpacas make when they spot a predator or threat. The whole herd turns to look. Learn more →
Altiplano
The high Andean plateau of Peru and Bolivia (about 3,500-4,500 m) where most of the world's alpacas live. Learn more →
AOA
Alpaca Owners Association — the main U.S. alpaca registry and show organization (formerly AOBA and ARI).
Appaloosa
A spotted fleece pattern: colored spots on a light background. Learn more →
ARI
Alpaca Registry Inc., the former U.S. registry that merged into the Alpaca Owners Association.
Average fiber diameter (AFD)
The mean thickness of fibers in a fleece sample, measured in microns. Lower = finer and softer. Learn more →