Dynamics of changes in the breed composition of pastoral and agro-pastoral cattle herds in Benin: implications for the sustainable use of indigenous breeds.

ABSTRACT: Data for concretely analyzing current trends regarding breed composition of cattle herds at the national scale and the logic behind it are lacking in Benin. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the dynamics of breed composition in traditional Beninese cattle herds. In this regard, the main reasons for acquiring new breeds by herders and management strategies for animal genetic diversity in herds were targeted. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, a total of 753 cattle herds were surveyed in six pastoral communities along a north-south transect in Benin. Data collection included original breed composition of the herds (at their installation), cattle breeds introduced in the last five years, reasons for introducing new breeds, herders' breed preferences, and perceptions co

SUBMITTER: Houessou SO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9019235 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature