Maraz goat (Kurdish: بزنی مەرەز) or Markhoz goat is a breed of goat indigenous to Kurdistan[1] [2] that are known as a multipurpose livestock and especially famous for their high quality fiber.[1]
The history of goat domestication in Kurdistan dates back to 9000 BC.[1] Maraz goat has been long used as for its milk, meat and most importantly high quality fiber known as mohair. The goat has been for long known and domesticated in Kurdistan and has the furthest genetic distance to other breeds of goats.[3]
Maraz goats are agile and have small bodies (weigh between 30 to 35 kilograms on average). They have different colors such as white, black and different shades of brown and grey.
The body of maraz goat is covered with wool-like curly mohair that is often used for weaving fabrics used in Kurdish clothing. The fiber is especially used in men's clothing for making Rank u Choxe, which consists of a coat and pants worn by men.