The llama has numerous unique characteristics of red blood cells and hemopoietic responses. They are well adapted to high altitudes with lower atmospheric oxygen concentrations. The PCV tends to be lower normally than most domestic species but the hemoglobin is normally significantly greater than one-third of the PCV value. The MCHC (39-46) gm/dl) is, therefore higher than other domestic species. The MCV (22-29.5 fl) is much lower than most species.