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Changes in Llama (Lama glama) milk composition during lactation
1Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Goettingen, Albrecht-Thaer-Weg 3, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany. ariek@gwdg.de
Journal of Dairy Science
|August 11, 2006
Summary
Llama milk composition changes throughout lactation, with fat and protein increasing while lactose decreases after the first month. These findings help in creating milk replacers for llama cria.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Dairy Science
- Comparative Physiology
Background:
- Llama milk composition data is scarce, limiting the development of artificial milk replacers.
- Understanding lactation dynamics is crucial for neonatal care and herd management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the major milk components in llamas throughout lactation.
- To develop predictive models for llama milk composition.
- To provide data for formulating milk replacers for orphaned or agalactic llama cria.
Main Methods:
- Weekly milk sampling from 10 llamas for 27 weeks postpartum.
- Analysis of major milk components: fat, protein, lactose, dry matter, milk urea nitrogen (MUN), and gross energy.
- Nonlinear regression analysis to fit algebraic models to the data.
Main Results:
- Mean concentrations: 4.70% fat, 4.23% protein, 5.93% lactose, 15.61% dry matter, 22.62 mg/dL MUN.
- Significant changes in fat, protein, and lactose concentrations occurred during lactation.
- Fat and protein increased, while lactose decreased from week 5 postpartum onwards.
- Milk urea nitrogen increased with lactation stage; pH decreased.
- Somatic cell counts indicated no mastitis.
Conclusions:
- Llama milk composition exhibits distinct changes throughout lactation, similar to ruminants but with unique values.
- Developed algebraic models accurately predict milk constituent concentrations.
- This research provides essential data for creating effective milk replacers for llama neonates.