Cashmere Goat Research Study
The GWAS (genome-wide association study) being undertaken by Dr. Megan Rolf of Kansas State University and Roger Merkel and Terry Gipson from Langston University presents an exciting opportunity for anyone with cashmere goats. The details of the study are intimidatingly technical, but the bottom line is that we have been supporting the scientists as they work to discover the genes behind quality cashmere.The research team is using genetic analysis done by Neogen Genomics in Lincoln, NE and fiber testing results from Texas A & M’s fiber testing lab. They hope to discover correlations between desirable scores on phenotypical characteristics (like fiber diameter) and genomic combinations.
Once the research establishes the genetic markers that are associated with fine fiber diameter, long staple length, curvature (style), and other fiber characteristics, cashmere goat owners will be able to do genetic testing and breed for genes that are likely to produce the finest quality cashmere.
Over the past three years, cashmere goat producers have been collecting fiber samples and DNA samples and delivering them to the labs in Nebraska and Texas. Results from the study will be shared as soon as it is available.
