Analysis of some physical and morphological characteristics of wool obtained from malya sheep

This research was conducted to investigate some wool characteristics of Malya Sheep raised in Central Anatolia Region. In the study, 30 heads from the same herd, fleeces of lambs (3-6 months old), yearling (1-1.5 years old) and mature (2 years and over) sheep, were used as material. Greasy wool yields were weighted in all animals individually. Fleece samples were taken from the shoulder, rib and thigh area of animals of all age groups. In these examples, the properties of length, thinness, elasticity and, strength yield were determined. Statistical analysis of this research was performed using SPSS software and descriptive statistics of variables presented as mean ± standard error. At the end of the study, average graesy fleece weight was 2.2 ± 0.09 kg, fleece thickness was 25.7 ± 0.35 µ in lambs, 25.3 ± 0.27 µ in yearling, 26.7 ± 0.26 µ in adults; average fleece length was 38.8 ± 1.05 mm in lambs, 70.1 ± 1.46 mm in yearlings, 62.3 ± 1.29 mm in adults; average elasticity values were determined as 25.4 ± 0.81 % in lambs, 28.1 ± 0.64% in yearlings, 30.0 ± 0.60% in adults; average strength values were determined as 14.1 ± 0.73 cN / Tex for lambs, 11.9 ± 0.40 cN / Tex for yearlings, 15.0 ± 0.61 cN / Tex for adults; mean yield results were determined as 62.8 ± 1.06%, 54.6 ± 1.15%, 58.9 ± 1.05% in lambs. As a result, it was seen that the fleece of Malya sheep almost had the desired quality and characteristics in the textile industry. Therefore, scientific studies should be done to improve the properties of the fleece. It would be suitable to make a regulation in the prices for the production and promotion of wool obtained from this breed and other merino crossbred breeds. It would be appropriate to take permanent steps by coming together with Public Institutions, Private Sector and Civil Society Organization in order to produce, collect and process wool. 2021, 49 pages Key Words: Malya sheep, wool characteristics, body region, sheep age