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Arguments in Favor of Breed Standards Ian Watt, formerly of Australia, is a strong proponent of standards, although he makes specific distinctions between screening, show and breed standards. Regarding breed standards he has stated, "I believe that the industry needs one to have some record of what defines an alpaca and, by default, what is not acceptable breeding goals if breeders want to practice their art in this industry." This appears counter to the prevailing wisdom in the United States that what "defines an alpaca" is its presence in the herd book of ARI. While Mr. Watt also states, "This talk of devaluing alpacas because of the introduction of a breed standard is frustrating as this could only happen if it were to be applied in a measurable quality context," the historical use of herd books and breed standards has been specifically to devalue competing animals that can now be defined as "sub-standard". Other proponents of breed standards base their support on the argument that new buyers need to be educated. This seems based on incidents of extremely low quality alpacas being sold to unsuspecting new buyers at high prices. (AOBA has failed to grapple with issues of industry ethics for over a decade.) Give credit to these individuals, as they acknowledge the purpose of breed standards, ultimately, is the devaluation of the animals of others. Another argument used in support of breed standards revolves around the show ring. It is argued that breed standards would bring more consistency to the results in the show ring. Given that the highest prices, for better or worse, are paid for animals that do well in the show ring, we again see how breed standards are tied directly to value. As was previously noted, the AOBA web site states, "Alpacas are much like diamonds. The market pays a premium for the finest examples of the breed." The inescapable conclusion, contrary to those that say otherwise, is breed standards can only be related to the value of individual alpacas. Value is the raison d'être of breed societies in general, and breed standards in particular. One current AOBA Board member is alleged to have stated that the Board feels opposition to breed standards is based upon fear of loss of value to owner's investment. Another has stated, "If the BOD (possibly in conjunction with ARI) does put together a DIVERSE task force, the mission of that task force would be to begin the education process." Implicit in these statements is the idea that those that do not support breed standards are simply lacking the necessary information that would cause them change their opinions. Proponents of breed standards, by in large, use language that describes opponents as uneducated on the issue, emotional and ultimately, irrational. As we have seen, there are sound reasons to be opposed to any type of breed standard being imposed on alpaca owners. The conclusion is neither emotional nor irrational. Conclusions Alpacas have been forced into genetic bottlenecks at least twice in the past 400 years. It is estimated that the Spanish conquest of South America resulted in the death of 90% of the indigenous herds of alpacas and llamas following Pizarro's arrival in 1572. Then, beginning in 1980 the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path) gorilla movement is alleged to have again decimated indigenous herds in an effort to subjugate the peasant population. The fact that alpacas have survived the repeated onslaughts against their survival is a testament to their adaptability. What a tragedy it would be to see these wonderful creatures harmed by the very groups who have taken up their cause here in the United States. Moreover, what a setback it would be to the potential for alpacas to become a new, primary industry in American agriculture. The proposals to create a breed standard for alpacas can only be seen as short sighted and uninformed given the amount of information that is available regarding other breeds. All owners of alpacas would be well advised to ask pointed questions of their leaders as to why such a discussion is even being undertaken. Proponents of breed standards should be asked to provide evidence that standards have led to increased health, productivity and utility in other types of domestic animals. Proponents should be asked to provide evidence of how standards have led to a decrease of unethical behavior among the members of other breed societies. Finally, proponents of breed standards should be asked what measures will be instituted to insure that the "development of the breed" will be governed by general health and reproductive soundness, rather than aesthetics and short-term profits. Alpacas have provided much to their caretakers over the centuries. Anyone exposed to alpacas knows personally the magic they have to offer. Decisions that we make affecting the alpaca's destiny must be based on thoughtful consideration of the animals' best interests. Anything less would only lessen us all. John Merrell-Gateway Farm Alpacas
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