Abstract

Small ruminants (SR) are more efficient and superior to other animals in
economic terms. They are dual purpose animal for production of milk and
meat and occupy a unique place in the developing countries. In Egypt the SR
population amounts to 6 million heads and consist of the main local goat
breeds (Baladi, Barki, Shamy and Egyptian Nubian-Zaraibi) and the main
local breeds of sheep are ( Ossimi, Rahmany and Baladi). Raising SR can be
a valuable part of a sustainable farm where integration of livestock into a farm
system can increase its economic and environmental health and diversity.
The productivity of meat and milk of goats and sheep is considered sub
average or low due to poor productive system, poor food supply,
mismanagement of natural sources and no characteristic significant genetic
improvement programs to improve productivity of goats .Also there are many
reproductive problems impacting SR production like infertility, low conception
rate, early embryonic deaths, abortion, still birth, mastitis and newly born
deaths. On the other hand the reproductive impacts are mainly due a group of
infectious and zoonotic diseases like brucellosis, chlamydiosis,
toxoplasmosis, Q fever and tick born disease. Also the internal and external
parasites play a great role in impacting SR production.
The aim of the project will be directed to optimization of productivity and
reproduction of local breeds of SR in north Sinai and Nobaria as an example
of reclaimed land under harsh conditions in Egypt.