The unit's skills and expertise
Last update: 3 October 2022
Development of dairy sectors in the South
The dairy sectors in countries of the South have undergone exceptional development over the past two decades. CIRAD has accompanied this development through research seeking to document the technical, socioeconomic, sanitary, statutory and environmental dimensions of these dairy sectors.
Improvement of pork meat quality
The pig production sector must adapt itself to an increasing demand for meat, which has doubled over the past twenty years, and new nutritional and health quality requirements in distribution networks. SELMET accompanies and supports these changes with activities conducted mainly in the Indian Ocean region.
A better knowledge of Camelidae
Of all domestic species, large Camelidae have the most diverse range of uses. SELMET has collaborated frequently with partner institutions from every continent in the world to study and optimize the role of Camelidae within the context of major climatic and sanitary challenges related to global change.
Agro-ecological potential of meadows in tropical regions
How can the development of livestock production be conciliated with environmental protection? The agro-ecological management of meadows is one strategy proposed by SELMET in an approach associating improved productivity with a reduction of negative environmental impacts.
Mixed farming systems
Draught cultivation, forage plants, and other exchanges of services between agricultural and livestock farmers are just some examples of the integration of agriculture and animal production at different scales (from on the same farm to the regional level). Today, escalating pressure on land and economic uncertainties are leading to the reconsideration of new forms of association to meet increasing human requirements while protecting the environment.
Conserving fertilizing resources in livestock farming system
SELMET is conducting research in which farming system effluents are considered not as waste, but a resource that can be used for soil restoration and the production of feed and forage for livestock.
Coherent information on feed resources
The optimal use of locally available feed resources in countries of the South is an economic necessity. CIRAD, INRA, and the French Association of Animal Husbandry (Association française de zootechnie, AFZ) are working on an extensive database on the nutritional value of these resources.
Pastoral systems: from ecosystem preservation to development
Nomadic and transhumant pastoral systems contribute to the survival of more than 150 million people in dry and mountainous regions. These animal production systems have adapted themselves to numerous climatic, economic and socio-political shocks; in the Sahel, landscapes are exposed to strong pressures while in regions such as southern Europe, they need to be recovered; the lifestyles of pastoral families must be secured and their living conditions improved. Pastoral mobility and herd management are part of strategy to limit the vulnerability of these production systems.
Last update: 3 October 2022