A form of subsistence agriculture centered around the herding of domesticated animals, this practice involves cyclical migration patterns. These movements are dictated by the need to find fresh pastures and water sources for livestock. This lifestyle is often observed in arid and semi-arid regions, where settled agriculture is challenging or impossible. Common livestock include cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, depending on the geographical region and available resources.
This adaptive strategy allows human populations to thrive in environments that would otherwise be unsuitable for dense settlement and agriculture. It represents a sustainable way of utilizing marginal lands, converting sparse vegetation into valuable resources such as milk, meat, and wool. Historically, it has facilitated trade and cultural exchange across vast territories, connecting disparate communities through the movement of goods and ideas.