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Science et changements planétaires / Sécheresse. Volume 4, Number 1, 47-55, Mars 1993, Synthèse

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Author(s) : Bernard Faye

Summary : Mangroves are intertidal forests found commonly in the intertropics. They also occur in certain desert areas such as Obock on the Red Sea coast of Djibouti. Here, pastoral management predominates, camels representing the main livestock. During the dry season or under severe climatic conditions, the mangroves are used for posture. However, the low nutritious value of the Avicennia marina leaves upon which the animals mainly feed generates specific polydeficiencies (copper, zinc, magnesium, etc.) and chronic undernourishment. This is particularly observed in camel calves fed solely on such forage. Camel disorders such as lameness, underweight, dermatitis, paralysis and ectoparasitism are non-specific disorders linked directly to the poor nutritious value of the fodder available (nitrogen and multimineral deficiencies and low fibre content). Providing complements of nitrogen (cereal-based concentrate) and minerals (salt-lick, or minerals incorporated into the concentrate) is essential for maintaining the livestock in good health. Alongside well-thought-out management, it should also help preserve the mangrove and avoid its being overexploited.

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