Typology of Livestock Farming in the Oasis Agrosystems of Adrar (South-Western Algeria)

Abstract For centuries, the Saharan oasis agro-systems of Adrar region have fed many generations, based on an original organization, based on the efficiency of drainage water on the diversification of crop systems in association with small livestock farming. The aim of the work is to describe the systemic typology of oasis livestock farming in the Adrar region (southwest Algeria). In order to assess the livestock typology, a series of surveys were conducted on 164 farms in the oases of the study region. The analysis reveals that the production system, traditionally aimed at subsistence agriculture. The dominant production system is an intensive system, characterized by intensive mixed food crops (Phoenicuculture, arboriculture, herbaceous crops: cereals, fodder, market gardening, industrial and condiment crops), in association with livestock farming mainly of small ruminants (goats and sheep). The livestock system is characterized by a family type, small in size in traditional management. It is generally managed in stalls and its feed comes mainly from fodder crops, domestic waste and by-products of palm groves. Family livestock farming can be an important source to ensure a certain production of animal origin (milk and meat) for family self-consumption. As a result, it can contribute to ensuring food security, family financial security and improving soil fertility in oasis farm plots.