M.SIA.A11: Tropical animal husbandry systems

Learning outcome

Students are able to:

  • understand the impact of the natural and economic environment on the evolution of different types of husbandry systems as well as on their orientation and intensity of production;
  • gain understanding for parameters that have to be considered when aiming at the improvement of livestock husbandry systems within a given framework;
  • individually analyse and present a specific tropical livestock production system.

Courses

Tropical animal husbandry systems (Lecture, Seminar)

Contents:
This module provides an extensive overview on the different forms of animal husbandry systems in developing and transformation countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America, ranging from camel nomadism in deserts to beef ranching and intensive dairying in tropical highlands.
The system-specific strategies of livestock management are analysed in view of their ecological and economic sustainability. The (potential) interactions of livestock with other components of the farming system are explored, thereby differentiating between market and subsistence oriented systems.
The role of additional factors influencing livestock production systems such as cultural, social, economical and political frame conditions are discussed.

Examination

  • Written exam (90 minutes, 75%) and oral seminar presentation (ca. 15 minutes, 25%)
  • Examination requirements: Abiotic and biotic conditions of animal husbandry in the (sub-)Tropics; characteristics, opportunities/constraints of pastoral, agro-pastoral, silvo-pastoral, aquatic, industrial and urban systems; species-specific management and production (cattle, sheep, goat, camel, yak, pig, poultry).

Further details

  • Admission requirements: None
  • Recommended previous knowledge: Basic knowledge (B.Sc. level) of plant and animal sciences or agricultural economics
  • Language: English
  • Person responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Eva Schlecht
  • Course frequency: Each winter semester
  • Duration: One semester
  • Number of repeat examinations permitted: Twice
  • Recommended Semester: -
  • Maximum number of students: Not limited