Tunisian oases, one of the largest genetic stores, have always been important centers of agricultural and commercial production linking regions far apart from each other. With their three ‘green’ strats (date palms, fruit trees and annual crops), oases are a suitable ecosystem for the development of biodiversity of cultivated species as well as the preservation of those threatened by disappearance. They are numerous of cultivars well adapted to local conditions and constitute a natural heritage of plants with multiple uses (human nutrition, fodder, condiment, medicinal and aromatic plants, etc....). The date palm is a key species of the oasis agro-ecosystem, contributing to soil stabilization, moisture and shade, providing shelter from strong winds and effectively helping to prevent desertification and preserving the local flora and fauna. However, the oases is facing several obstacles and constraints that hinder agricultural development in this area. Indeed, the environment is subject to strong pressures such as water scarcity, soil and water salinization, plant infestation by diseases and pests.

As the last editions, the 6th International Symposium on Resources Management and Biotechnology Applications in Dry lands and Saharan cropping will be organized by the Institute of Arid Regions (IRA) in December 18-21, 2018.

This meeting will focus on the Oasis Agriculture and Sustainable Development in order to evaluate the impact of biotechnologies and development programs on the oases agro-systems. 

The organizing committee of the meeting is pleased to present this first announcement to invite you to join this meeting in Djerba (Tunisia) in December 2018. The conference will address key issues regarding the conservation, rehabilitation, valorization and management of oases agro-systems.

The fact that this meeting gathers scientists and representatives of the agencies and organizations of development will give the opportunity to generate practical recommendations and orientations.