Characteristics of Wool of Selected Polish Local Sheep Breeds with Mixed Type Fleece

The wool of several native breeds raised in Polish mountains and foothills was examined. The content of natural contaminants and basic wool parameters, thickness and length was determined during investigations. In addition, the wool morphology was analyzed by electron microscopic observations. It was revealed, that the fleece of sheep for all breeds is a mixed type, which is formed from more delicate, thinner and shorter wool with the addition of thicker and longer guarded hairs. In the fraction of guarded hairs, a high amount of medullated fibers and kemp occur. Comparing the wool obtained from sheep of white and colored varieties, it is stated that wool has similar characteristics. Additionally, it was found that similar parameters exhibit wool obtained from sheep of the same breed originating from various flocks raised in different locations. Analyzing the wool characteristics, the possibilities for its potential application were indicated.