Theory question 102
Agricultural Ecology(a) Explain each of the following terms: (i) agricultural ecology (ii) ecosystem.
(b) Mention: (i) two biotic components of a farm ecosystem. (ii) three abiotic components of a farm ecosystem.
(c) State five precautions that should be taken during storage of bags of maize in a store.
(d) Give four examples of bedding plants.
Show the model answer
(a)(i) Agricultural ecology: the study of crops and farm animals in relation to their environment (living and non-living factors).
(ii) Ecosystem: a community of living organisms interacting with one another and with their non-living environment.
(b)(i) Any two: crops; farm animals; weeds; soil organisms (earthworms); microorganisms; pests.
(ii) Any three: temperature; rainfall; relative humidity; sunlight; wind; soil; water; rocks/minerals.
(c) Any five: dry grain properly before storage; store must be rain-proof and well ventilated; clean and fumigate the store first; place bags on pallets off the floor and away from walls; use insecticides/fumigants; rat-proof the store; inspect regularly; first in, first out.
(d) Any four: marigold; zinnia; petunia; salvia; celosia; periwinkle (Vinca); balsam; coleus.
Bedding plants are low flowering plants grown in beds.