Practices, management, and typology of dromedary livestock systems and health constraints in southwestern Tunisia: The case of the Gafsa region

Dromedary production plays a key role in the socio-economic systems of arid regions in North Africa; however, information on the organization and management of camel production systems remains limited. This study aimed to characterize dromedary breeding systems in southwestern Tunisia (Gafsa governorate) using a typological approach. From April to August, a field survey was conducted among breeders selected from an official list provided by the Office of Livestock and Pastures. A total of 43 farms were randomly selected, representing 1195 Maghrebi dromedaries, including 1026 females. Data on farm structure, herd composition, and management practices were collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate analysis showed that camel production systems are predominantly traditional and extensive. Four types of farms were identified: (i) large-scale camel-oriented farms (7 %) characterized by the highest abortion (39 %) and juvenile mortality (35 %) rates; (ii) mixed livestock farms combining dromedaries with small ruminants (81 %); (iii) specialized sheep breeders operating under strong land constraints (5 %); and (iv) diversified mixed-species farms integrating goats and poultry production (7 %). Serological analysis using the CATT/T. evansi test revealed a high prevalence (90.91 %) of Trypanosoma evansi infection, indicating an important health constraint. These findings highlight the need to improve herd management and strengthen disease control strategies to enhance the sustainability of camel production systems in arid regions.