Potential application of Latin American silvopastoral systems experiences for improving ruminant farming in Nigeria: a review.

In a world marked by shifting climate patterns, a growing human population, and rising demand for ruminant-derived protein, producers face the need to implement strategies that enhance productivity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs), promote adaptability, and improve the sustainability of milk and meat production while optimizing resource use. One promising strategy to address these challenges is the adoption of silvopastoral production systems, which combine livestock with trees and shrubs. These systems are widely used in Latin America due to their proven benefits in terms of production, reduced emission intensity, land utilization efficiency, and other ecosystem services. Transferring technology from one region to another necessitates adapting these techniques to suit the receiving environment. This review suggests that the successful silvopastoral systems employed in the Latin America context can be effectively introduced in Nigeria, offering potential advantages for livestock owners. The research encompassed in this review demonstrates that the utilization of silvopastoral systems in ruminant farming can contribute to achieving several sustainable development goals, including enhancing food security, increasing milk and meat yields, supporting conservation efforts, bolstering biodiversity, and reducing GHG emissions. At the level of individual farms, the adoption of silvopastoral systems (SPS) can enhance the stability and resilience of farmers' livelihoods, boost milk production, facilitate animal growth, and improve animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]