Effect of nutrition on reproduction in llamas and alpacas

The role of nutrition, especially the role of energy and protein status, on reproductive performance of production animals has been well documented. Comparatively, there is a true paucity of literature regarding nutritional mediation of reproductive performance in llamas and alpacas. Following seasonal patterns of feed availability in South America, adverse effects of nutritional deprivation on reproductive performance are well recognized, suggesting similar nutrition–reproduction interrelationships. Camelids, with their unique metabolism, may have some peculiar interrelationships between reproduction and protein and phosphorus nutrition. This presentation will review basic issues of energy and protein nutrition relative to reproductive performance in llamas and alpacas, based primarily on hypotheses and extrapolation from other species. Opportunities for research on this topic will be discussed, including preliminary data from current research.