Pastoral agriculture and sheep breeds in the ain ben Khelile region, Naâma province (western Algeria)

Faradji Khalil^1*, Senoussi Abdelhakim², Slimani Noureddine³

¹ Department of agricultural sciences, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Saharan Bioresources Laboratory: Preservation and Valorisation, University of Ouargla 30000-Algeria
* faradji-khalil@univ-eloued.dz
² Department of agricultural sciences, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Saharan Bioresources Laboratory: Preservation and Valorisation, University of Ouargla 30000-Algeria
³ Department of agricultural sciences, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Environmental and Health Biology Laboratory, University of El Oued 39000-Algeria

Abstract

Algeria, with its vast landscapes including the High Plateau and the Sahara, hosts a significant sheep population, estimated at over twenty million head. This population plays a crucial role in the national economy. However, the genetic diversity of this Algerian sheep heritage is poorly understood and increasingly threatened by genetic erosion. Over the past two decades, local sheep breeds have largely been overshadowed by the Ouled Djellal breed, which now accounts for more than 60% of the national sheep population. This study focuses on identifying and characterizing sheep breeds in the Ain Ben Khelile region in Nâama (Western Algeria). A survey conducted with 50 local breeders during the period (September 2022–August 2023) revealed significant trends in population dynamics and crossbreeding practices involving the Ouled Djellal breed. The research highlights the near disappearance of the "Hamra" breed, also known as "Deghma" or the sheep with a reddish head, once highly valued for its meat. Historically, these local breeds were recognized for their resilience and ability to thrive on a diet primarily consisting of pasture. The findings emphasize the urgent need to address genetic erosion and the loss of local breeds, which have traditionally been adapted to the region's harsh environmental conditions. Preserving the genetic diversity of these breeds is crucial to maintaining the resilience and sustainability of Algeria's livestock sector.

Keywords: breeds, resilience, environmental, high Plateau, Ouled Djellal

Introduction

The Algerian steppes, situated between the Tellian Atlas to the north and the Saharan Atlas to the south, span approximately 20 million hectares. These steppes are bounded to the north by the 400 isohyet, marking the limit of dry cereal cultivation, and to the south by the 100 isohyet, denoting the extent of esparto grass (Stipa tenacissima). The region's bioclimatic zones range from cool lower semi-arid to cool upper per-arid conditions. Researchers are currently reassessing these bioclimatic boundaries due to the impacts of climate change and desertification (Senoussi et a 2014).

Ecologically, the steppes serve as a transitional zone between coastal Algeria and the Saharan regions, moderating the adverse climatic effects on the coastal areas. The steppe soils are characterized by calcareous accumulation, low organic matter content, and high susceptibility to erosion and degradation. Water resources are scarce, unevenly distributed, and poorly managed, with over 50% of the 6,500 water points no longer operational (MADR 2021).

Vegetation in the steppes is dominated by four main types: grassy steppes with esparto and sparte, which offer mediocre rangelands; chamaephytic steppes with white mugwort, which have high pastoral value; Hamada scoparia, found on the regs; and azonal formations with psammophiles and halophilous species that provide good fodder (Senoussi et al 2019).

Demographically, the steppe regions experience higher population growth compared to other parts of Algeria. In the wilaya of Naâma, pastoralism is a key economic activity, with sheep, goat, and camel breeding conducted extensively on rangelands rich in steppe vegetation. Historically, the Hamra breed, well-adapted to the southern conditions, has been largely replaced by the Ouled Djellal breed. The Ouled Djellal breed, originating between Djelfa and Laghouat, has become dominant, with lambs weighing 3.5 kg at birth and reaching 30 kg by five months, compared to the Hamra lambs' growth of 25-30 kg by five months (DSA 2023).

Among the eight major sheep breeds Rembi, Ouled Djellal, Hamra, Sidaoun, D'men, Berber, Barbarine, and Taadmit breeder preference for the Ouled Djellal has intensified, leading to a homogenization of the Algerian sheep population. This trend has critically endangered other breeds, which are either abandoned or subjected to crossbreeding with the dominant Ouled Djellal (Boubekeur et al 2013).

This study aims to document and characterize the various sheep breeds in the Ain Ben Khelile area through field surveys and interviews with local breeders. The findings will contribute to understanding the impact of breed preference on genetic diversity and the future of sheep farming in the region

Materials and methods

Study area

The commune of Ain Ben Khelil(figure 01), situated in the southwestern part of Naâma city, covers an area of 3,800.03 km² and has a population of 14,072 inhabitants, equating to a density of 3.70 inhabitants per km². This region is characterized by its diverse landscape, which includes 241,775 hectares of rangelands, 76,256 hectares of alfa grasslands, and 39,310 hectares of forested areas (DPSB,2024).

Following the administrative reorganization of Algeria in 1984 and the establishment of the Wilaya of Naâma, Ain Ben Khelil was designated as a commune. The region has since experienced development, benefiting from infrastructure improvements including two major roads connecting to Naâma and Méchéria, three water towers, and two large wells. In 1984, there were over 50 wells, but this number has since expanded to nearly 300, thanks to new socio-economic development initiatives funded by the National Fund for the Development of Agricultural Reform (NFDAR).The landscape and infrastructure developments in Ain Ben Khelil play a crucial role in supporting the local economy, particularly in the context of sheep breeding and other agricultural activities. The expansion of water resources and transportation infrastructure has been instrumental in facilitating agricultural productivity and development in the commune (DPSB,2024).

Map 1. Location map of the commune of Ain Ben Khelile (Author, 2024)

Livestock breeding is the principal economic activity in Ain Ben Khelil, with secondary agriculture also playing a role. By the end of 2023, the number of livestock breeders in the commune had reached 1,178. Table 1 provides detailed data on livestock numbers in the region, highlighting the importance of animal husbandry to the local economy. The development of water resources and infrastructure has been pivotal in supporting and advancing agricultural and livestock activities within the commune.

The Ain Ben Khelil region was selected for this study due to several key factors:

Pastoral Significance: The region is primarily oriented towards pastoral activities, with the local rural economy heavily reliant on livestock breeding.

Extensive Livestock Practices: Livestock activities are predominantly conducted in an extensive manner on rangelands abundant with steppe vegetation.

Historical and Environmental Context: Historically, Ain Ben Khelil has been known for its adaptation to southern conditions through the Hamra sheep breed. However, this breed has been largely replaced by the Ouled Djellal breed, which originates from between Djelfa and Laghouat.

Transitional Zone: The region serves as a transition zone between the Saharan territory and the steppe, making it particularly sensitive to climatic changes.

To explore these elements, 50 breeders were randomly selected from the Ain Ben Khelil region, located in the lower arid bioclimatic zone of the Nâama Wilaya (West Algeria). The study focused on farms in areas characterized by cool winters and a stepic environment, aiming to understand the dynamics of livestock practices and their adaptation to regional conditions.

Methodology

In order to carry out our study and to answer the question posed, we opted for the following methodological approach:

Bibliographic Research; The study commenced with an extensive bibliographic review, involving the examination of various manuscripts, books, memoirs, and articles. This phase focused on gathering comprehensive information about livestock breeding systems. We consulted several technical-administrative bodies, including the Directorate of Agricultural Services (DAS), the Ain Ben Khelile subdivision of agriculture, and the Commission for the Development of Agriculture in the Saharan Regions (CDARS). The objective was to compile detailed data on existing breeding practices and systems.

Following the bibliographic research, a pre survey was conducted involving key resource persons to further enrich our understanding of livestock types in the Ain Ben Khelile region. Additional information was collected about livestock keepers, available resources, and the types of animals managed throughout the study area.

Designing the Questionnaire; The survey was designed to capture a range of information aimed at exploring and comprehensively understanding livestock systems in Ain Ben Khelile. The questionnaire included:

General Information: Details about the farmer and their herd, including the structure, size, average age of animals and breeds.

Animal Management: Information on the number of animals, their composition, breeds, and reproduction practices.

Farm Characteristics: Details about the farm buildings, including their type, location, housing conditions and hygiene.

Feed and Nutrition: Data on the nature of feed used, including the types of fodder, storage methods, grazing periods and durations, concentrated feed, and water availability.

Conduct of the Surveys; The questionnaire was manually prepared and formally designed for the survey. It was administered to the sampled farmers in various settings, including on the range, in stables, in homes, and on farms, through both individual and group interviews. A comprehensive list of 50 farmers from different categories was created. Farmers were randomly selected based on their availability and were distributed across different zones to ensure a representative sample.

This structured approach allowed for the collection of detailed and diverse data on livestock systems, contributing to a thorough understanding of the practices and conditions in the Ain Ben Khelile region.

Results

Our investigation revealed that farmers in Ain Ben Khelile primarily raise the following sheep breeds: Ouled Djellal, Rembi, Sardi, and El Hamra (red)(Photos 1,2,3,4).

Ouled Djellal: This breed is the most widespread, accounting for approximately half of the total sheep population in the region. Its dominance suggests that it is well-adapted to the local climatic and environmental conditions.

Rembi: The Rembi breed is also significantly present, representing about 48% of the sheep population. This indicates that the Rembi breed is well-suited to the region's conditions and is favored by a substantial number of breeders.

Sardi: The Sardi breed is notably absent from the study area, which may indicate that it is either not adapted to the specific conditions of Ain Ben Khelile or is not preferred by local farmers.

El Hamra: Despite being the original breed of the region, El Hamra is found in only 2% of the sheep population. This low percentage suggests that, although historically significant, the breed is now relatively uncommon in the region.

These findings highlight the prevalence of the Ouled Djellal and Rembi breeds in Ain Ben Khelile, reflecting their adaptation to local conditions and the preferences of local farmers. The absence of the Sardi breed and the minimal presence of the El Hamra breed illustrate variations in adaptability and breeder preference (Table 2).

Photo 1. The Ouled Djellal race source (Photo by Author,2024)	Photo 2. The Rembi breed source (Photo by Author, 2024)
Photo 3. The Sardi breed source (Photo by Author, 2024)	Photo 4. The Hamra breed (the red breed) source (Photo by Author, 2024)

The Ouled Djellal breed is the most important breedin terms of numbers; it is an all-white breed, with fine wool and tail, high waist, long legs, powerful, and able to walk. The age of puberty of the ewes is 8 to 10 months, and the first birth at the age of 15 months, its fertility is 85% (Chellig, 1992).

The Rembi breedhas always been referred to as a cross between the Mouflon (Laroui) of the Djbel amour and the Ouled-Djellal breed, because it has the conformation of the Ouled- Djellal and the colour of the Mouflon, it also has enormous horns (Chellig, 1992). Cradle of the breed Its cradle extends from the Oued Taouil in the east to the Chott Chergui in the west. The breed is mainly found in Tiaret, Souguer, Aflou, Djebel Amour, Djebel Nador and Khenchla.

The Serandi breedis characterised by a white head with a black muzzle and black spots around the eyes, which is why it is known as the "bespectacled breed". In the male, the profile is arched; the skull is broad and has powerful white horns. In the female, the muzzle is almost straight and the head is without horns. The legs are white and woolless, with black spots on the tips and hocks. Serandi sheep are large, ranging from 0.80 to 0.90 m in height in males and 0.55 to 0.65 m in females. The adult weight varies from 70 to 90 kg in males and 45 to 55 kg in females. The fleece is white and weighs on average 1.5 kg in females and 2.5 kg in males (Chellig, 1992).

The Hamra (red) breedis a Berber breed whose geographical area extends from the Chott Chergui to the Moroccan border. It also covers the whole of the Moroccan High Atlas with the Beni Iguil tribe from which it takes its name. It is the second most important breed in Algeria. It is the best meat breed because of its fine bones and the roundness of its lines (legs and ribs). It is a small breed with fine bones and rounded forms. The head and legs are dark mahogany red; the fleece is white and dense. The ewes reach puberty at the age of 12 months, and their first lambing takes place at the age of 18 to 20 months (Chellig, 1992).

To understand and study the livestock farming systems in the study area and their characteristics, we conducted a detailed survey covering the following points: Farming systems,Sheep feeding practices, Farmers' interests in livestock breeding, Health issues,Nature of animal housing,Livestock market and Genetic and Genetic Improvement.

The results obtained from the survey are presented in the table 3.

Discussion

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is a statistical technique used to reduce the dimensionality of data and identify the most significant components that explain the maximum variance. In this study, PCA was applied to analyze the variability among four breeds: Ouled Djellal, Rembi, Sardi, and El Hamra. The aim of this analysis is to understand the underlying structure of the data and identify the breeds that contribute the most to explaining the variance.

The PCA revealed that the Ouled Djellal and Rembi breeds are the most significant components in explaining the variability in the data. The Ouled Djellal breed has a standard deviation of 1.4280 and explains 50.98% of the total variance, while the Rembi breed has a standard deviation of 1.4003 and explains 48% of the variance. The eigenvalues for the first two principal components are 2.04 and 1.96, respectively, confirming their importance in explaining the variance.

In contrast, the Sardi and El Hamra breeds showed minimal contributions to the overall variance. The Sardi breed explains 0% of the variance, while the El Hamra breed explains only 2%. These results suggest that these two breeds are either more homogeneous or share similar traits with the dominant breeds.

The PCA biplot (Figure 1) illustrates the distribution of the breeds in the principal component space. The Ouled Djellal and Rembi breeds are positioned far from the origin, reflecting their significant contribution to the variance. In contrast, the Sardi and El Hamra breeds are clustered near the origin, indicating their limited influence on the overall variability. Together, the first two principal components (Ouled Djellal and Rembi) explain 98% of the total variance, demonstrating that they capture most of the variability in the data.

The results suggest that the Ouled Djellal and Rembi breeds may possess distinct genetic or phenotypic traits, possibly due to their adaptation to specific environmental conditions or selective breeding practices. For example, these breeds might be more resilient to harsh climatic conditions or have higher productivity in certain desirable traits. On the other hand, the minimal contributions of the Sardi and El Hamra breeds may indicate a higher degree of homogeneity or shared ancestry with the dominant breeds.

Figure 1. Principal component analysis of sheep breeds in the study region

After studying the livestock farming systems by surveying 50 farmers (76% agropastoralists and 24% pastoralists), we observed that sedentary livestock farming is the most predominant, adopted by 63.47% of the farmers, while semi-sedentary farming is practiced by 32.95%. In contrast, transhumance is used by only 3.58%, a practice that has significantly declined due to agricultural expansion. This has led farmers to adopt sedentary or semi-sedentary livestock systems instead (figure 2).

Figure 2. Livestock farming systems

Wheat bran is the most widely used feed resource among all farmers, followed by barley grain, utilized by 98% of respondents. However, some farmers (7%) take advantage of the opportunity to acquire significant quantities of low-cost soft wheat flour due to the lack of systematic oversight by fraud control and quality assurance services.

The limited availability and high price of maize result in its minimal use (only 2% of respondents), primarily as a component in mixed concentrate feeds (combined with barley grain and wheat bran) intended mainly for fattening diets.

Green barley is the most commonly used forage, employed by 72% of the surveyed sample, with the majority (58% of cases) being entirely self-cultivated by the farmers. Only 14% of respondents reported renting land for green barley production, of which 6% leased the entire forage area. As for land allocated to green oats (22% of cases) and alfalfa (9% of cases), these plots are never leased but are reserved exclusively for feeding their own herds.

Farmers predominantly focus on breeding females (ewes + ewe lambs), which account for 65% of their flocks, followed by fattening animals (yearlings) at 15.66%, and lambs (<6 months or pre-weaning) at 15%. Breeding rams represent the smallest share, at just 4.33%. These results reflect the farmers’ emphasis on flock growth and breeding, which positively impacts their income (Figure 3).

Figure 3. Farmers' interests in livestock breeding

Steppe herders are particularly interested in animals that are strong walkers, efficiently utilizing the natural forage of rangelands while adapting to harsh climatic conditions (extreme cold and heat) and maintaining regular reproductive capacity. The primary selection criterion is thus the herd's ability to exploit the steppe’s limited pastoral resources and withstand significant, frequent changes in their diet. To achieve self-sufficiency in red meat, milk, and wool, it has become necessary to select the most efficient and productive animal breeds adapted to the conditions of each region in Algeria (Bencherif, 2011).

All surveyed herders (100%) primarily rely on natural mating. This means they introduce breeding males into their herds to mate with females during estrus. This reproduction method promotes natural selection of animals best suited to the steppe environment.

The breeding season for sheep in the Algerian steppe generally occurs between September and November, when environmental conditions are favorable and forage resources are abundant. Herders closely monitor ewes for signs of heat, such as restlessness and receptiveness to mounting (Bencherif, 2011).

Breeding males, called rams, are selected based on genetic traits, conformation, and fertility. Herders may use multiple rams to ensure better herd coverage. Natural mating offers several advantages: it requires no specialized equipment or complex techniques, making it accessible to herders of all scales. Additionally, it promotes natural selection of animals best adapted to the local environment, helping maintain herd genetic diversity (Bencherif, 2011).

Herd selection and genetic improvement are common practices aimed at improving desirable traits in farm animals. These processes involve selecting the best breeding stock and using different techniques to maximise the chances of obtaining offspring with the desired characteristics (Gaouar et al 2015).

To develop breeding and improve the animal heritage, and in particular to rehabilitate the local El Hamra breed, the artificial insemination centre at Belhandjir, some fifteen km from Ain Sefra, is nearing completion and should contain 400 head of the red breed, of which the region is considered to be the cradle (DSA, 2023).

The centre is intended to meet the needs of several of the region's wilayas, with the aim of modernising animal husbandry through the introduction of recent biotechnology. However, the main task still lies ahead, namely equipping the laboratories with the specific equipment required for their activities. The National Centre for Artificial Insemination and Genetic Improvement (CNIAAG) is responsible for providing this equipment, as well as managing the building. However, the project seems to be slow in coming to fruition.

Herd hygiene and disease control are essential aspects of any breeding operation. To maintain the herd's health, it is important to implement a range of preventive and curative measures, while the hygiene of both the premises and the animal are vital to achieving production performance.

The quality of hygiene on a farm depends largely on the condition of the premises, particularly the sheep pen. This encompasses a number of aspects, such as the way it is set up, the type of fittings and compliance with health regulations.

In the Ain Ben Khelile region, a steppe region with a pastoral vocation par excellence, farmers generally attach little importance to the quality of their sheepfolds, which tend to be temporary enclosures commonly known as ‘Zriba’, made of wire and partially covered with metal sheeting (Photo 5). This type of building is widespread in steppe environments, but unfortunately they do not meet any of the health standards required to ensure good reception conditions.

Photo 5. Zriba herds in the study area

In the best of cases, the sheepfold can be compared to a garage that serves both as a shelter for the animals and a store for feed. However, during field investigations, it was found that very few farmers invest in improving the quality of their sheep pens.

This neglect of the quality of breeding facilities can have harmful consequences for the health of the animals as well as their production and reproductive performance. It is therefore imperative that farmers become aware of the importance of a well-designed sheepfold that complies with health standards.

According to the testimonies of the players surveyed in the various areas covered by the study, the veterinary services play a decisive role in disease prevention, as in the case of vaccination campaigns against common diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, pasteurellosis, sheep pox, bluetongue and brucellosis.

Prophylaxis programmes are carried out systematically every year, including two free annual vaccination campaigns for small ruminants, aimed at preventing brucellosis and sheep pox. These campaigns are organised by the public authorities and supervised by the veterinary services of the Directorate of Agricultural Services. They are well structured and cover all livestock without distinction (DSA, 2023).

Interestingly, 96% of respondents said they had vaccinated their livestock against sheep pox, while 87% had done so against brucellosis. Although this health cover is free, it has many advantages. Firstly, it entitles farmers to a subsidy on grain barley depending on the number of animals vaccinated against sheep pox. Ii/- Vaccination against brucellosis is carried out by a simple eye drop and requires only one administration throughout the animal's life.

These prophylactic measures are essential to prevent the spread of disease in small ruminants and help improve the overall health of the herd. It is encouraging to note that these vaccination campaigns are widely accepted and implemented by farmers in the Nâama region (DSA, 2023).

Overall, health cover against infectious diseases is well regulated and the results are satisfactory. Farmers use other types of paid treatment, both preventive and curative. Anti-parasite treatments are the most common (92% of cases), followed by treatments for respiratory diseases (87% of cases) and enterotoximia (84% of cases).

It is interesting to note that 85% of those questioned stated that they had no frequent serious diseases in their flock. However, certain health problems are of concern to farmers, in particular post-natal mortalities (28% of declarations) and enterotoximia in young lambs. These problems may be linked to the poor quality of the rearing facilities and their lack of hygiene. This highlights the importance of taking action to improve rearing conditions and improve hygiene in sheep pens by investing in adequate infrastructure and adopting good sanitary practices.

74% of farmers reported that flocks often suffer from infestations of internal parasites such as intestinal worms. This leads to weight loss, anaemia and digestive problems in the animals. To combat these parasites, veterinary services implement a regular worming programme, which includes the use of appropriate anthelmintics. The veterinary service also plays a role in educating farmers about good hygiene practices in the herd environment to limit the spread of parasites.

In addition to this, herds also suffer from external parasites such as lice, ticks and mites, which also affect their health. To prevent such infections, farmers use appropriate anti-parasite products and maintain a hygienic environment.

In addition, a balanced diet rich in nutrients, particularly proteins, minerals and vitamins, is essential to maintain the animals' health. Rations are adapted to the specific needs of each category of animal. A nutritional deficiency can weaken animals' immune systems and make them more vulnerable to disease (DSA, 2023).

Vaccination makes it possible to avoid clinical signs, reduce excretion and reduce mortality and morbidity on the farm, but it is only one aspect of prophylaxis against infectious diseases. However, it is only one aspect of prophylaxis against infectious diseases. It is therefore part of an overall health approach, especially for multifactorial diseases, where it can only be successful if it is combined with control of risk factors, given consumer concerns about drug residues (DSA, 2023).

The majority of the farmers surveyed are pastoralists who use organic manure to enrich the soil. Sheep farming is the most common livestock activity, with 20% of the farmers raising only sheep and 80% raising sheep alongside other animals, such as goats and cattle.

Interestingly, it appears that older breeders tend to have better herds. This finding aligns with Le Houérou (1975) suggestion that animals in these herds are often very old and are culled at a later stage.

The proportion of the Ouled Djellal breed is significant, comprising over 50% of the local sheep population for more than a decade. This observation corroborates the findings of the Algerian Animal Genetic Resources Commission report (RGA/FAO, 2007), which noted a marked increase in the Ouled Djellal population and its hybridization with other breeds, not only in our study area but also across Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia (Atchemdi,2008). The Ouled Djellal breed has demonstrated ideal adaptability to the goals of breeders and has gradually replaced other breeds in agricultural, agro-pastoral, and sylvopastoral systems through hybridization with local populations (Bencherif 2011).

Unfortunately, the primary red sheep breed (El Hamra) has almost entirely disappeared from our study area and from southern Oran (Algeria). These local breeds were once valued for their hardiness and their ability to thrive on a diet primarily sourced from pastures. However, as these traits are no longer in high demand, these breeds have been rapidly replaced by hybrid breeds like the Barguia ("white") from eastern Algeria (the Ouled Djellal region). This larger breed, which seems more popular in the market, has dominated the plains south of Oran since the early 1990s (Aïdoud et al 2006).

The local population shows a strong preference for the Ouled Djellal and Rembi breeds due to their primitive characteristics and their remarkable ease of fattening. This preference has led to the neglect of the El Hamra breed, despite its status as the original breed of the region and its reputation for preserving the steppe environment and producing high-quality meat.

Farmers' preference for the Ouled Djellal breed can be considered a strong pressure that tends to homogenize the Algerian sheep population. This situation has become critical for other breeds, which are either neglected and/or subjected to crossbreeding practices with the dominant breed (Gaouar et a 2015).

This scenario implies a loss in the genetic potential of Algerian sheep, as highlighted by Senoussi et al. (2019), who reported a predominantly hybrid sheep population.

Conclusion

Through our study, it has become clear that the wilaya of Nâama, particularly the region of Ain Ben Khelile, is rich in livestock, particularly sheep. This wealth is reflected in the diverse sheep breeds that are well-adapted to the region’s natural conditions. These breeds significantly contribute to the income of local inhabitants through the sale of meat, wool, and milk in local, regional, and national markets. However, our findings also underscore the urgent need to focus on preserving the Hamra (red) breed, a remarkable local breed that is nearing extinction.

Preserving the Hamra breed requires a comprehensive approach. This could include implementing conservation programs focused on selective breeding and establishing genetic banks to protect the breed's genetic diversity. Additionally, it is crucial to raise awareness among farmers and the broader community about the importance of maintaining breed diversity.

Preserving the Hamra breed is not only vital for safeguarding our agricultural heritage but also for supporting the economic sustainability of the region's farmers.

Acknowledgements

-I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the director of the publication and his staff for their valuable efforts in the service of science.

I also extend my thanks and praise to my professors SLIMANI Noureddine and SENOUSSI Abdelhakim for their advice and guidance to accomplish this article.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest

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