ANIMAL FIBRES: BIOLOGICAL SOURCES, STRUCTURE, PRODUCTION, ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE AND SUSTAINABLE UTILIZATION-A REVIEW

Manish Sachan*

Animal fibres are natural fibrous materials obtained from a wide variety of domesticated and wild animals and represent an important component of biological and economic resources. Unlike plant fibres, which are primarily composed of cellulose, most animal fibres are proteinaceous in nature and are mainly constituted by keratin or fibroin. Wool obtained from sheep, cashmere and mohair from goats, angora from rabbits, camel and yak fibres from their respective mammals, and silk from silkworms are among the most important animal fibres used by humans. From a zoological perspective, the production of animal fibres is closely associated with animal taxonomy, morphology, physiology, genetics, nutrition, reproductive biology, environmental adaptation and management practices. Fibre characteristics such as diameter, length, crimp, strength, colour and thermal insulation vary considerably among species and breeds and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Animal fibres also possess considerable ecological and economic significance because they are renewable, biodegradable and often obtained as part of sustainable livestock and sericulture systems. However, challenges including climate change, animal diseases, nutritional limitations, intensive production systems, processing waste and animal welfare concerns can affect the sustainability of fibre production. Recent advances in genetics, breeding, biotechnology and improved animal-management practices provide opportunities for enhancing fibre quality and productivity while maintaining animal health and welfare. This review discusses the major biological sources of animal fibres, their classification, structure, growth and production, factors affecting fibre characteristics, economic and ecological importance, animal welfare considerations, and emerging approaches for sustainable utilization of animal fibres.