Importance of Vlashko Vitoroga sheep in agroecological farming regarding food quality and landscape

Abstract

Considering the importance of biodiversity for agriculture, global food and health security, the Republic Project was focused on supporting the biodiversity and the role of autochthonous Vlashko Vitoroga sheep in agroecological farming system. Vlashko Vitoroga type of Zackel sheep is an important element of regional agro-biodiversity, relevant to aesthetic value of landscape, the tradition and the cultural heritage of Serbia. Vlashko Vitoroga sheep is an endangered type, registered at the Endangered–Maintained breeds list. This sheep is unique for its adaptation to extreme climatic conditions in the South Banat region, at the edge of Deliblato Sands area. Vlashko Vitoroga sheep is traditionally reared in the pasture based farming systems. The objective of this study is to evaluate the integration of natural resources of the sensitive habitat on robustness and meat characteristics of Vlashko Vitoroga sheep. The results of the study could be important for decision-making strategy for future management of the agroecological livestock system and landscape conservation. The analysis of the botanical composition revealed a high degree of floristic biodiversity, the dominantly present families were Fabaceae family, Poaceae family and Lamiaceae family. Health status and robustness of Vlashko Vitoroga sheep, important for pasture based farming system, were examined by clinical and laboratory investigations. In scope of food security and meat quality the analyses of lamb meat (m. longissimus dorsi) has been performed. The results has shown that fatty acid content and the values of n-6:n-3 fatty acid ratio (1.92±0.44) are in the accordance with results of pasture fed lamb meat. Sensory meat characteristics make consumers prefer Vlashko Vitoroga pasture fed lamb meat as a local product. The obtained results of added value of Vlashko Vitoroga sheep should increase the interest for this endangered breed, sustainable production and regional development.