Sheep breeds in North African steppes: Case study of the border region of Naama (western Algeria)

Abstract

Localized in the West of Algeria, the region of Naama is the best known for its pastoral areas forged by the specific climate and available soil conditions that have characterized the region from time immemorial. Sheep breeding is the main activity on which the local economy is based. The main goal of this paper is to study the distribution of sheep breeds in herds of the border area of Naama. Used methodological framework for performed study is based on a field survey of 133 breeders from the municipalities of Kasdir, Ain Ben Khelil, and Sfissifa. The results show that the Ouled-Djellal breed dominates the sheep population in the study area, while it represents more than 90%. It is followed by the Daraa breed with a rate of 3.77% in overall structure, while the two breeds Hamra and Srandi represent 2.54% and 2.44% respectively. The rate of the last breed Rembi is 0.52%. Study also reveals some correlations (positive or negative) between sheep breeds and other ruminant species (mainly cattle and goat), as well as with the lifestyles practiced by farmers, or age of breeders.

Keywords

• hamra
• sardi
• sheep breeds
• western algeria
• north african steppes