Efficiency and Sustainability in Ruminants’ Livestock Systems: A Case Study of Dry-Land Pastures in the Montado Ecosystem

Abstract

The Montado (Portugal)/Dehesa (Espanha), a unique agro-sylvo-pastoral ecosys tem in the Mediterranean region, offers a valuable model for sustainable ruminant livestock production. This chapter explores the efficiency and sustainability of this system, with a particular focus on dryland pastures and grazing practices. Extensive livestock systems in the Montado, defined by their low-input and low-output approaches, are highly dependent on rainfed pastures. The Mediterranean climate, with its irregular rainfall patterns and increasing aridity, poses significant challenges to pasture productivity and animal performance. This chapter explores various grazing systems, including continuous and deferred grazing, and their implications for pasture health, animal welfare, and ecosystem services. By analyzing the relation ship between grazing management, pasture quality, and environmental factors, we seek to identify strategies for enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of ruminant livestock systems in the Montado. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the potential of agro-sylvo-pastoral systems to balance agricultural production with environmental conservation, providing valuable insights for sustain able livestock practices in Mediterranean regions.