REPRODUCTION OF DAIRY COWS IN THE SAHARIAN REGIONS, STUDIES OF SOME PARAMETERS
IN THE VALLEY OF M'ZAB, ALGERIA

Hocine Bensaha, Fodil Arbouche

Abstract
    A survey was conducted in the valley of M'zab (southern Algeria) on 53 livestock farms spread over 7 towns, in order to characterize the practices of dairy cattle breeding and conduct of breeding.
    Herd structure is divided to 78% in cattle and only 3% in mixed cattle and goat rearing. The dairy herd is dominated by Holstein and Montbeliard. 74% of farmers practicing natural mating and 26% use artificial insemination which is broadcast in the region. More than 56% of farms recorded early abortions, and most farmers are unaware of the good criteria for animals.
    The results were used to assess reproductive performance and practice to conduct of dairy cattle.

Key words: Algeria, Dairy cattle, Reproduction, Saharian region