Animal husbandry is the branch of agriculture that focuses on the care, breeding, and

management of domesticated animals, such as livestock, poultry, and fish. It involves various
practices and techniques to ensure that animals are healthy, productive, and profitable. Animal
husbandry encompasses a range of activities, including animal feeding, housing, health
management, breeding, and genetic improvement. The goal of animal husbandry is to ensure
the optimal welfare of the animals, as well as to maximize the quality and quantity of products
derived from them, such as meat, milk, eggs, and wool.

Importance:

1. Food production: One of the primary reasons for animal husbandry is to produce food
for human consumption. Livestock and poultry provide meat, dairy, and eggs that are
important sources of protein in human diets. Fish farming is also a form of animal
husbandry that provides a significant source of food for human consumption.
2. Economic development: Animal husbandry is a vital part of many rural economies,
providing jobs and income for millions of people around the world. The production and
sale of animal products generate income for farmers, traders, processors, and other
stakeholders in the value chain.
3. Conservation of biodiversity: Animal husbandry practices can contribute to the
conservation of rare and endangered species. By breeding and managing animals in
captivity, animal husbandry can help to increase the populations of rare and
endangered species, which can be released into the wild to restore their populations.
4. Soil fertility: Animal husbandry can contribute to soil fertility by providing manure and
other organic fertilizers. Animal manure is a valuable source of nutrients that can help to
improve soil quality and increase crop yields.
5. Sustainable agriculture: Animal husbandry can help to promote sustainable agriculture
by reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. By using animal manure and
other organic inputs, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical inputs and promote
soil health.
Benefits
6. Benefits to man: Animal husbandry provides a vital source of food for human
consumption, including meat, milk, eggs, and fish. These products are important
sources of protein and other nutrients that are essential for human health.
Additionally, animal husbandry can provide income and employment
opportunities for people in rural areas, contributing to economic development
and poverty reduction.
7. Benefits to country: Animal husbandry can contribute to the economic
development of a country by generating income and creating jobs. It can also
provide foreign exchange earnings through the export of animal products.
 Additionally, animal husbandry can contribute to food security by providing a
reliable source of protein for the population.
8. Benefits to society: Animal husbandry can provide social benefits, such as
improving the standard of living for rural communities and promoting cultural
heritage. It can also contribute to social stability by providing a means of
livelihood for people in rural areas.
9. Benefits to nature: Animal husbandry can contribute to the conservation of
biodiversity by promoting sustainable use of natural resources. It can also
contribute to soil health and fertility through the use of animal manure and other
organic inputs. Additionally, animal husbandry can help to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions by promoting sustainable land use practices.