M.SIA.A11: Tropical animal husbandry systems

Learning outcome:

Prescription:
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 and examinations
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..

Exam:
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)..


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