The G.A.I.N. (The Genetic Alpaca Improvement Program) is a computerized, performance-based program for genetic evaluation and prediction of polygenic or quantitative traits which are important to alpaca breeders. The G.A.I.N. is designed to help alpaca breeders identify the genetic breeding value of their alpacas for use in their breeding programs. The G.A.I.N also provides alpaca breeders with accurate, useful information that they can use to advertise and sell their breeding stock. The G.A.I.N. uses the most modern, scientifically-proven technology to measure genetic performance and make predictions about progeny. This technology -- called Estimated Progeny Differences, or sometimes called Estimated Transmitting Ability -- has been used extensively in the beef cattle, dairy, swine, poultry and sheep industries for many years, and is only now being implemented in the alpaca industry.

Each member farm in The G.A.I.N. submits performance data for traits of importance to their breeding program. The G.A.I.N.'s BLUP (Best Linear Unbiased Prediction) program is then used to calculate the genetic prediction values, EBVs, EPDs, etc. The member farm then receives a confidential report with the appropriate EBVs for each of their animals. All submited data is confidential so none of the individual farms have access to the data for any other farm. Each farm can decide than if they want to keep these data confidential and use it only for "in house" breeding decisions, or if they want to publish the data about any given animal for marketing reasons.

Farms enroll in The G.A.I.N. program for a modest annual fee of $150 per farm and then pay $6.25 for each animal they enroll for evaluation. Plus, The G.A.I.N. is available to both Suri and Huacaya owners!

Each member farm can use The G.A.I.N. logo on their website, literature or advertisements to validate the EBVs they are reporting. Whether purchasing or marketing animals, when you see The G.A.I.N. logo, that is your indication that the owner is dedicated to the improvement and progress of their breeding program! Members, click here to download the logos for your marketing use.

Dr. Wayne Jarvis is the driving force behind The G.A.I.N. His genetics articles appear regularly in Alpacas Magazine and he is a popular guest speaker on the topic of Genetics for Alpaca Breeders at events across the country, including the 2004 AOBA National Conference in Louisville, KY.

We know you're busy, but comitting to the genetic improvement of your Alpaca investment is something you can't put off. By learning more about the genetics of your animals you set the groundwork for successful breedings, increased sales and happier customers. Discover The G.A.I.N. Advantage today and enroll in our unique, industry leading system that can help you improve the quality of your breeding program.

The Genetic Alpaca Improvement Network (G.A.I.N.)
4370 Bennett's Corner Rd · Holley, NY 14470
Phone: 585-638-8572 · Fax: 585-638-8573
Email: