ANGORA GOATS AND MOHAIR PRODUCTION IN SOUTH AFRICA: A REVIEW.

This review summarises the properties, nutritional requirements, and production of a natural fibre called mohairs produced by Angora goats. One of the most valuable natural fibres is mohair, produced by Angora goats. Angora goats, also known as Ankara, have their origin in Asia Minor, but today, South Africa is home to over 23% of the global population of Angora goats, where it produces over 60% of the world's mohair, generating about 4 million kilograms annually. Eastern parts of South Africa account for over 72% of the total Angora goats in the country, hence producing the highest number of mohair. The physical properties of Angora mohair, such as lustre, non-inflammable, breathable, durability, elasticity, and resistance to soiling, make it unique and different from other natural fibres of other animal sources. These properties are affected by age, nutrition, and management. The role of nutrition is particularly crucial, as Angora goats require 3-4% of their body weight DM, whilst meat goats and lactating dairy goats require 3-5% and 4-6% of their body weight DM. When Angora goats were fed diets with 18% crude protein, mohair growth increased by about 33% annually compared to diets containing 12-15% CP, while feed intakes were the same. Also, copper, sulphur, molybdenum, and water intake affect the quality of mohairs. In conclusion, inadequate nutrition significantly impedes productivity and sustains financial losses. Hence, promoting sustainable farming practices is vital, investing in research to develop resilient grazing systems and drought-tolerant feed crops, and building capacity for small-scale farmers to improve mohar production and quality in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]