Title : Effects of age and sex on wool quality traits of Orkhon sheep under Mongolian pastoral production systems
Abstract:
This study investigated the effects of age and sex on wool quality traits of Orkhon sheep under Mongolian pastoral production systems. A total of 142 sheep representing different age groups (1–6 years) and both sexes were included in the analysis. Wool samples were evaluated for greasy fleece weight, scoured wool yield, fiber composition, fiber length, and fiber diameter using standardized laboratory procedures. Data were analyzed using a General Linear Model (GLM) to quantify the effects of age, sex, and their interaction. Scoured wool yield ranged from 57.63% to 62.32% and was significantly influenced by age (P < 0.05), whereas sex had no significant effect (P > 0.05). Fiber diameter showed a significant increase with age, indicating progressive physiological fiber coarsening during ewes’ maturation. In addition, a significant age × sex interaction was detected for fiber diameter, suggesting sex-dependent differences in fiber development across age classes. Overall, the results indicate that age is the primary determinant of wool quality variation in Orkhon sheep, while sex plays a secondary role. These findings are consistent with previous studies in fine-wool sheep populations (McGregor, 2012; Purvis & Swan, 1997; Wang et al., 2019) and provide useful insights for improving selection and management strategies in Mongolian wool sheep production systems.
