The Year of the Camelids: United Nations, 2024

Camelids are naturally occurring species all over the world. They have homes on multiple continents, spanning from South America to Asia. Many of these hard working animals have been domesticated for millennia, but still have pockets of wild species.

In South America, the domestic camelids are made up of the Alpaca and Llama. They serve similar purposes, but there are differences. Alpacas are primarily raised for their fiber. Their wool is very soft and a strong insulator, making it useful for communities located in the Andes mountains. White alpacas are preferred, as people are then able to dye the fiber and create vibrant pieces of clothing. Non-white alpacas may be raised for meat instead of fiber. Llamas are primarily raised for their meat and are used as pack animals. They are sure-footed and very adept at navigating the mountainsides of the Andes. There are a variety of breeds of llama, and only 2 of alpaca. The breeds of alpaca differ in their wool texture. What is commonly thought of as alpaca (very fluffy) is the Huacaya breed. Llama breeds differ on their conformation, which affects meat production. While crossbreeds between alpacas and llamas do exist, they are uncommon as usually the purposes between alpacas and llamas differ (meat versus fiber).

In Asia, the Bactrian camel can be found. These camels are known for having two humps, and generally being "woolier" than Dromedary camels. Bactrian camels are raised for their wool, milk, and meat. These camels are also used for entertainment in racing. These camels are found mainly in central Asia, but can be found as far west as the Crimean Peninsula.

In Africa, the Dromedary camel can be found. These single hump camels can be found from western Africa to India. Also used for their milk and meat, they are less for their entertainment value and not used at all for their wool. However they are used as pack animals, and can be found mainly in northern Africa for this purpose.

Camelids are an important group of animals throughout the world, mainly for domestic purposes but their wild populations are also important for biodiversity throughout 3 continents and a variety of habitats. Today, the domestic species are used for many purposes throughout the world from companions to food sources. Camelids need to be preserved for many reasons, and domestic animals are helping the world to realize their importance.

Written by: Emily Smith

Source: https://doi.org/10.4060/cd5884en, Camelid biodiversity, population trends and geographic distribution