International Journal of Innovative Approaches in Agricultural Research
Abbreviation: IJIAAR | ISSN (Online): 2602-4772 | DOI: 10.29329/ijiaar

Research article    |    Open Access
International Journal of Innovative Approaches in Agricultural Research 2025, Vol. 9(2) 67-78

The Dynamic of Equine Farming in the Arid Mediterranean Area in Tunisia: Tradition Meets Modernity

Mohamed Aroua, Samia Ben Said, Seieddine Ben Rjab, Mokhtar Mahouachi

pp. 67 - 78   |  DOI: https://doi.org/10.29329/ijiaar.2025.1321.2

Publish Date: June 30, 2025  |   Single/Total View: 0/0   |   Single/Total Download: 0/0

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Abstract

This study aimed to characterize equine farming systems in the desertic Médenine region (Tunisia) based on a survey of 70 breeders. Equine farming is significant, with herds reaching up to 25 mares. Typically, farms have 1 to 3 horses, mainly for leisure and some commercial purposes. The survey found that all farmers are men, aged 22 to 42, with 67% having secondary education and agricultural training. Farms average 13.2 hectares, with 4.3 hectares dedicated to agricultural use and 0.295 hectares for horses, reflecting a system adapted to the region's climate.

The primary farming system is mixed, combining agriculture, livestock, and sometimes tourism. In addition to horses, goats, and cattle are raised for milk and meat. The main breeds are purebred Arabian and Arabian-Barb horses, selected for traits suited to both leisure and commercial needs.

The study identifies three equine farming typologies: (i) leisure, tourism, and popular games farming; (ii) foal commerce farming; and (iii) competition and racing farming. These typologies reflect different breeding goals, from cultural traditions to tourism and competitive markets. Despite limited land and resources, farmers use strategies such as external feed and advanced breeding techniques to maintain horse health and productivity. Overall, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the equine farming systems in the Médenine region, including farmers' demographics, farming structures, breeds, and typologies.

Keywords: Equine, Tunisia, Farming System, Desertic Area

How to Cite this Article?

APA 7th edition
Aroua, M., Said, S.B., Rjab, S.B., & Mahouachi, M. (2025). The Dynamic of Equine Farming in the Arid Mediterranean Area in Tunisia: Tradition Meets Modernity. International Journal of Innovative Approaches in Agricultural Research, 9(2), 67-78. https://doi.org/10.29329/ijiaar.2025.1321.2

Harvard
Aroua, M., Said, S., Rjab, S. and Mahouachi, M. (2025). The Dynamic of Equine Farming in the Arid Mediterranean Area in Tunisia: Tradition Meets Modernity. International Journal of Innovative Approaches in Agricultural Research, 9(2), pp. 67-78.

Chicago 16th edition
Aroua, Mohamed, Samia Ben Said, Seieddine Ben Rjab and Mokhtar Mahouachi (2025). "The Dynamic of Equine Farming in the Arid Mediterranean Area in Tunisia: Tradition Meets Modernity". International Journal of Innovative Approaches in Agricultural Research 9 (2):67-78. https://doi.org/10.29329/ijiaar.2025.1321.2
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