Animal production in tropical pastures of Latin America

Animal production in Latin America based on tropical pastures contributes significantly to the Agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Edapho-climatic conditions and the land tenure system are among the determining factors of different types of animal production in various countries. Based on climatic characteristics, it is possible to divide Latin American tropical livestock production systems into those of dry areas, savannahs and humid areas. Dual-purpose animals account for the bulk of total livestock in tropical Latin America, with management in native pastures predominating. Measures to increase animal production in the region should include the use of more productive forage varieties adapted to different areas, appropriate pasture and herd management procedures and animal and plant genetic improvement, among others. Two of the main obstacles to greater livestock production are the degraded state of many pastures and the need to control the emission of greenhouse gases. In order to meet the increased demand for food, especially those of animal origin, efforts to increase production should prioritize the recovery of degraded pastures, greater use of integrated systems incorporating legumes and proper management practices, aimed at reducing the emission of greenhouse gase