Agro biodiversity and livestock farming: autochthonous species and breeds in Serbia

Abstract

Agro biodiversity or genetic resources for agriculture and food is one of the most significant component of total biodiversity, and it encompasses various animals, plants and micro-organisms that are necessary to maintain the key functions of agro-ecosystems. According to the United Nations, the world population has reached as much as 7.3 billion to date, with a forecast of 9.7 billion in 2050 and 11 billion by the end of the century. Well-adapted and well-developed livestock farming is an essential element of the agricultural production system, especially important in difficult conditions when crop production in the agroecosystem cannot sustain and increase its productivity and adapt to changing circumstances, and is crucial for the food security of the population. Preservation and improvement of livestock farming, animal genetic diversity, preservation of autochthonous and development of new breeds, preservation of genetically diverse populations provide society with a greater range of options to meet the future challenges in the development of agriculture. This paper gives review of the condition of farm animals and autochthonous breeds: Podolian bovine, Busha, domestic buffalo, domestic-mountain horse, Nonius, Balkan donkey, Mangalitsa, Moravka, and Resavka pig, Pirot sheep, Bardoka, Krivovir sheep, Karakachan sheep, Lipska sheep, Vlaška-Vitoroga sheep, Čokan Tsigai goat, Balkan goat, Svrljig hen, Banat Naked Neck hen and Sombor Kaporka hen. Genetic resources in animal husbandry represent all species, breeds and strains of farm animals and they have economic, scientific and cultural significance for our country.