Pigtrop 2.0 : the next evolution of the information web center to promote research and education in pig sciences and development in southern countries

PigTrop website is a unique and collaborative information center about pig science in the tropics since 2003. It is run by the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (Cirad) and gathers contributions from researchers from numerous international scientific institutions. Its activities mainly focus education and information accessibility for researchers, students, professionals and development agencies. A new version, Pigtrop 2.0, is on construction to improve the usefulness of this web platform and to better meet the demand of Southern countries\' partners. Previously developped in html format, Pigtrop 2.0 is managed through an open-source web content management system. A positive improvement is also targeted by questionning the global organization, contents and the complementary add-ins to fit the needs of visitors and strengthen the network capacities for the research and development sector; an essential Spanish version is on development. Information accessibility is improved by using CSS format, RSS syndication, and more efficient search engines; Open Archives and Selective Dissemination of Information Service offers will be available to ACP countries. The communication between network\'s partners are enhanced to reinforce linkage and partnerships, e.g. with a new forum and newsletter addressed at this time to 1400 subscribers in every continents. Important topics have been be focused to improve the relevance of the delivered information, the quality of the technical documents and the scientific handling of the local issues and challenges. The following key-issues in Pigtrop 2.0 for Southern countries have been identified as following: Animal health and emerging diseases, socio-economical development and integrated animal-waste management for small- and medium-scale farms, rural development facing spatial and social constraints, genetic management in small population, low-cost feeding management, biodiversity use and conservation. This important evolution highlights the strong policy for Pigtrop team to fit into the other international networks and initiatives as an essential scientific and technical information center on pig science in the tropics. (Texte intégral)