Characterization and typology of goat production systems in Algeria based on producers survey

Abstract Background Goats, often associated with sheep, are a vital part of the national economy in many countries around world, and goat farming contributes significantly to family economy, sustainable livelihoods poverty reduction. In order study system Algeria, this study, which started between September 2012 June 2015, involved 141 farms 104 villages 21 wilayas Algeria. Results The results showed that 99.29% goats producers were male, most (74.47%) not owners animals. Goat represents main activity for only 18.44% farmers surveyed. They generally found small numbers large sheep herd (78.72%). Of visited, 50.35% use sedentary system, 17.71% practice seasonal transhumance during dry season (May October), 31.91% semi-sedentary. However, it is worth noting females (85.82%) more numerous than males (14.18%) herd. farm constitutes shelter reduced cases simple pen, without roof, inside animals enclosed whose space delimited by metal or wooden fence. Hygiene majority poor (57.45%). Most (78.01%) do contain same breed, crossbreeding controlled (78.72%) very rarely done bucks breed (14.89%). breeders (92.20%) largely neglect health their compared sheep. Conclusion Finally, Algerian seems be neglected considered as secondary species For reason, mandatory give importance species. government must carry out activities related conservation improvement breeding systems through development programs ensure management ecosystems used food production.