Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 125

The mohair is obtained from which of the following animals?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the specific breed known for producing mohair.

Correct Answer: A) Angora goats.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Mohair is a type of fiber that is obtained from the hair of Angora goats. This fiber is highly valued in the textile industry due to its unique properties. Angora goats are specifically bred for their long, lustrous hair, which is soft, durable, and has a natural sheen. The term "mohair" is derived from the Arabic word "mukhayyar," which means "choice" or "select," reflecting the high quality and desirability of this fiber.

The process of obtaining mohair involves shearing the Angora goats, typically twice a year. The hair is then cleaned, sorted, and processed into yarn or fabric. Mohair is known for its ability to hold its shape, making it ideal for use in clothing, upholstery, and other textile applications. It is also highly resilient and can be dyed in a wide range of colors, adding to its versatility.

It is important to distinguish mohair from other animal fibers such as wool. While wool is obtained from sheep, mohair is exclusively from Angora goats. The confusion may arise because both fibers are used in textile production, but they have distinct characteristics and come from different animals. For example, Merino sheep are known for their fine wool, which is soft and warm, but it is not mohair.

Another common misconception is that mohair comes from Angora rabbits. While Angora rabbits do produce a soft, fluffy fiber, it is not mohair. The fiber from Angora rabbits is known as Angora wool, which is different from mohair in terms of texture, strength, and use in textiles.

In summary, mohair is a high-quality fiber that is obtained from Angora goats. It is distinct from other animal fibers such as wool from sheep or Angora wool from rabbits. Understanding the source and properties of mohair is essential for recognizing its unique characteristics and applications in the textile industry.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Mohair is indeed obtained from Angora goats. These goats are specifically bred for their long, lustrous hair, which is used to produce high-quality textiles.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Merino sheep are known for their fine wool, not mohair. The confusion may arise because both are used in textile production, but they come from different animals.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Tuscan goats are not a recognized breed for mohair production. The confusion may stem from the fact that goats in general are associated with fiber production, but only Angora goats produce mohair.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Mountain sheep are not known for producing mohair. The confusion may arise from the fact that both sheep and goats are used for fiber production, but mohair specifically comes from Angora goats.

Mnemonic: A for Angora, A for mohair.

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