Preface: 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources ^†

Welcome to this volume dedicated to the conference “BIODIVERSITY: Food Security & Health”, the 9th International Seminar MGIBR, which was held on April 20, 21, and 22 in the conference room of the University of Tlemcen. This seminar brought together researchers, academics, and professionals to discuss biodiversity and its crucial impacts on food security and health.

1. Introduction to the Conference

Global biodiversity is the result of thousands of years of human interactions with diverse climates and ecological conditions. The genetic variability of a species represents its evolutionary potential, allowing adaptation to environmental variations and resistance to new diseases. In Algeria, the genetic resources of animals, plants, and microorganisms offer a great diversity of breeds, adapted to their natural environment and production capacities. Biodiversity plays a crucial role in responding to climate change challenges and constitutes a varied wealth with significant economic and socio-cultural importance.

2. Objectives

Despite its socio-cultural and economic importance, Algerian biodiversity does not yet benefit from adequate characterization and conservation programs. The aim of this seminar was to develop research programs for the valorization, characterization, and management of Algerian biodiversity, addressing various aspects through the following thematic sessions:

• Session 1: Human Diversity;
• Session 2: Animal Diversity;
• Session 3: Plant Diversity;
• Session 4: Microorganism Diversity.

3. Honorary Committee

Honorary President: Prof. Meghachou Mourad.

Honorary Vice-President: Prof. Soulimane Nassima.

4. Organizing Committee

Seminar President: Prof. Gaouar S.B. Suheil, University of Tlemcen.

Vice-President of the Seminar: Dr. Sidhoum Mohamed, University of Sidi Bel Abbès.

5. Scientific Committee

President: Prof. Atef Jaouani, University of El-Manar, Tunisia.

Other Members:

• Prof. Olivier Hanotte, University of Nottingham, UK;
• Prof. Abdulmojeed Yakubu, University of Nasarawa, Nigeria;
• Prof. Felix Meutchieye, University of Dschang, Cameroon;
• Prof. Elena Ciani, University of Bari, Italy;
• Prof. Paolo Ajmone Marsane, Catholic University, Italy;
• Prof. Gudrun Brockmann, Humboldt University, Germany;
• Prof. Nacer Mhamedi, INAT, Tunisia;
• Prof. Stéphane Fabre, INRAE, France;
• Prof. Atef Jaouani, University of El-Manar, Tunisia;
• Prof. Kazi Kahia, GenEthical Laboratory, Algeria;
• Prof. Ahcène Hakem, CRAPast, Algeria;
• Prof. Gherib Mohammed, C.U. Naama, Algeria;
• Prof. Amrouche Abdel Ilah, C.U. Naama, Algeria;
• Dr. Mohamed Oueld Ahmed, HITE, Mauritania;
• Dr. Malika Aid-Boudries, Harvard University, USA;
• Dr. Touati Benoukraf, Memorial University, Canada;
• Dr. Abdoallah Sharaf, Ain-Shams University, Egypt;
• Dr. Ahmed M. Alqudah, Qatar University, Qatar;
• Dr. Rahmatalla A Sihem, University of Berlin, Germany;
• Dr. El-Bouyahyaoui Rachid, INRAA, Algeria;
• Dr. Tefiel Hakim, University of Tissemsilt, Algeria;
• Dr. Chahbar Mohamed, University of Tissemsilt, Algeria;
• Dr. Djaout Amel, INRAA, Algeria;
• Dr. Kdidi Samia, Arid Regions Institute, Tunisia;
• Dr. Menani Achour, University of Sétif, Algeria;
• Dr. Ameur Abdelkader, University of Tlemcen, Algeria;
• Dr. Gherissi Djalel Eddine, University of Souk-Ahras, Algeria;
• Dr. Mediouni Reda, C.U. Naama, Algeria.

6. Other Members of the Organizing Committee

• Dr. Taibi W, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Mkedder I, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Meghelli I, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Kaouadji Z, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Belkhadem S, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Labbaci M, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Benhamadi M, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Kalai S M, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Benyarou M, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Hadi Y Haddam, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Kidoud B, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Belharfi F Z, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Dich I, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Abdelbari H, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Dich S, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Selka S, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Aidet N, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Haddadi I, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Mediouni R, University of Tlemcen;
• Mme Benyahia S, University of Tlemcen;
• Dr. Bellabbes M, University of Sidi Bel Abbès;
• Mr. Aissaoui O, L.A.S.T.J Association;
• Mr. Moumani M, Director of P.N.T.

7. General Information

Seminar Languages: Arabic, French, and English.

Important Dates:

• Submission of abstracts and photographs: 20 February 2024;
• Notification of abstract acceptance: 1 March 2024;
• Registration and abstract submission: [email protected].

This seminar was a platform for exchanging ideas, establishing collaborations, and promoting innovative research for the preservation and valorization of biodiversity, both in Algeria and internationally.

We thank our sponsors, committee members, and all those who contributed to the realization of this event. We hope that this seminar enriched your understanding of biodiversity and its importance for sustainable development.