Glossary of Terms

Term applied to wool which is unnaturally fine, due to under-nourishment over an extended period.

Readily absorbs moisture from the atmosphere.

Refers to a pregnant ewe.

Front teeth on the sheep's lower jaw used for cutting.

Capable of infecting an animal and causing disease. Infectious agents are bacteria and viruses. Footrot and Ovine Johnes Disease are examples of infectious diseases. Infectious diseases can be transmitted by direct contact between animals (contagious diseases), or by a carrier such as an insect.

Inside the animal's body. Usually refers to parasites, such as worms (roundworms, fluke, tapeworm).

International Wool Textile Organisation. An international forum for establishing standardised test procedures (IWTO Test Specifications), regulations governing the use of these procedures (IWTO Regulations), and procedures for arbitrating disputes over commercial transactions involving raw wool, wool sliver and wool yarns (the IWTO Blue Book). IWTO is pivotal in providing a technical and commercial framework for international and intra-national trade involving wool. Representation within IWTO is via National Committees appointed by the Wool Industry associations within member countries.

A method for applying under pressure a chemical solution remedy against external parasites using a jetting wand.

Placing of the rams with the ewes.

Wool from around the sheep's jaw which can be matted or seedy.

Short white (may be black) hair fibres found on the face and legs of sheep.

A protein substance which is the chief component of a wool fibre.

A method of constructing fabric by interlocking a series of loops of one or more yarns.

Young sheep from new born to 12 months of age (or when the first 2 permanent teeth erupt).

Two wooden or plastic moulded boards used to pick up lamb's wool and locks.