Characterization of cropping systems in the oasis of Boussemghoun (El-Bayadh- Algeria)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the different characteristics of the oasis agro-system of Boussemghoun in the Oranian Saharan Atlas (south-west of El-Bayadh). The oasis agro-system of Boussemghoun is considered a pillar of employment and a source of income and self-sufficiency for the Ksourian society in the commune of Boussemghoun. Investigations and a series of field surveys were carried out during the year 2022 with oasis farmers to identify the different farming systems practiced and to designate the factors limiting farming practices and to propose solutions and techniques adapted to the oasis environment. Through this diagnosis, the identification of existing cropping systems showed a diversity of production systems with traditional techniques in the oasis agro-system of Boussemghoun. This oasis agro-system presents a particular richness of agro-biodiversity (31 cultivated species) in a Saharan climate, by hundreds of cultivars of the date palm species, the most abundant of which are Feggous, Agharass, Ami Mohammed and Tardbit) dominates in the tree stratum, it is accompanied by 9 fruit species (olive, pomegranate, apple, vine, apricot, quince, pear, peach, fig tree) in the shrub stratum, and by many annual crops (21 market garden and 5 fodder species) in a herbaceous layer in association with family breeding.