This art book contains over 350 colour photographs by Marzio Marzot, documented information on traditional food production systems, scientific details and notes from a journey through one of the world' s outstanding region: the Lake Chad Basin in Africa. It provides an insight into the life and customs of the local farmers, fishermen and pastoralists who foster, maintain and utilize biodiversity in their traditional agricultural systems, thereby deploying the knowledge and techniques that they have accumulated over many centuries. FAO promotes the sharing of experiences and awareness related to the role of rural people in conserving and sustainably using agricultural biodiversity. Building on the local knowledge and social organization of farmers is indispensable. The images in this book are a tribute to the knowledge and work of farmers and their care for the land.

This title is part of a collection of special books combining high-quality photographs and technical texts, aimed at creating awareness on people's vital role in biodiversity over the five continents, prepared by the FAO Interdepartmental Working Group on Biological Diversity for Food and Agriculture. It will not be included in standing orders.