Integrated crop-livestock farming in the Mediterranean

Integrated crop-livestock systems in the Mediterranean, such as the Mandra system in Lemnos, Greece, enhance resource efficiency and ecosystem services by combining crop cultivation with livestock rearing. The system uses crop rotation, intercropping, and fallow periods to maintain soil fertility and reduce external inputs. Animal waste recycles nutrients, while crop residues provide fodder, improving water retention and drought resilience. Dry-stone walls enclose multifunctional farms with shelters, pastures, and arable land, supporting biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and sustainable livelihoods. This traditional model demonstrates ecological balance and long-term sustainability through complementarity and diversification.