Geographical Distribution and Biodiversity of Domesticated Animals of Jordan: History of the First Millennium and Current Situation

The domesticated animals or livestock species of Jordan have the potential to produce highly valued animal products and many small householders depend on this to avoid food insecurity in a worsening climate change that has persisted for a while, coupled with a rising cost of living crisis in Jordan as elsewhere. This study initiates urgent first steps for documenting the current status of indigenous livestock and their geographical distribution and biodiversity in Jordan. It also aims to raise and broaden public awareness for better conservation and utilization of food resources as they improve species of animals that are better geared to the need to adjust to climate change and its multiplex vicissitudes. In the present research, a survey was conducted listing the indigenous livestock breeds, their location, their number qua census and threats for extinction. The findings indicate that over the last century in Jordan, many livestock species have lost their previous key role in the livelihood of Jordanians and thus were reduced in number. They vanished from the scene in some geographical regions where they had long existed. Various other species are facing extinction or at risk thereof. In fact, human activity played at times a significant role: both positive in conservation for the status of livestock – and yet at other times negative, a threating role. We have decided to ring the alarm bell in order to alert the public and governmental authorities. The present study seeks to supply empirically-based data in order to encourage government offices, organizations and stakeholders in Jordan to engage in a rethink relevant to basic everyday life of the population and the faunal environment: and to take necessary steps to better conserve indigenous threatened livestock before it is too late