South and Central American Farms
Alan Nafzger, Ph.D. penicillin: An antibiotic, originally produced from a fungus, that controls bacterial and fungal infections (NOTE: Penicillin and the related family of drugs have names ending in -cillin: amoxycillin). COMMENT: Penicillin is effective against many microbial diseases, such as mastitis in cattle. Using antibiotics like penicillin helps in treating infections and maintaining livestock health.
adulterate: To reduce the quality of something, such as by adding water to milk. Ensuring products are not adulterated maintains their quality and marketability for farmers.
guinea corn: Guinea corn is sorghum, a versatile crop used for food, fodder, and industrial products. Growing guinea corn diversifies farm production and meets market demands for cereals.
An approach to farming that seeks to increase productivity, enhance resilience to climate change, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This involves practices such as crop rotation, conservation tillage, and agroforestry. For example, implementing climate-smart practices can help a farm adapt to changing weather patterns.
Crop: Crop noun 1. a plant grown for food 2. a yield of produce from plants The tree has produced a heavy crop of apples. The first crop was a failure. The rice crop has failed. 3. the bag-shaped part of a birds throat where food is stored before digestion verb (of plants) to produce fruit a new strain of rice which crops heavily. Managing crops ensures optimal yields and sustainable agriculture.
A nutrient added to milk to support bone health and immune function. Vitamin D is commonly fortified in milk. For instance, fortifying milk with vitamin D to help prevent deficiencies in the population.
Farm Business Survey: A survey carried out by Defra on the financial performance of different types of farms. Abbr FBS. This survey helps farmers benchmark their performance and make informed business decisions.
sheep ked: Same as sheep tick. Farmers benefit from managing sheep ked infestations to protect livestock health and productivity.
The size of the ribeye muscle, measured at the 12th rib. Ribeye area is used to assess muscling and meat yield. For example, measuring the ribeye area of beef cattle to evaluate carcass quality and market potential.
soil-borne fungus: a fungus whose spores are carried in the soil. Managing soil-borne fungi protects crops from disease, ensuring healthy growth and better yields.
Crossbreeding: Crossbreeding /kr?sbri:di?/ noun mating or artificial insemination of animals of different breeds in order to combine the best characteristics of the two breeds. Engaging in crossbreeding practices supports genetic diversity and livestock improvement.
The practice of combining fish farming with other agricultural activities, such as crop or livestock production, to create a synergistic system. For example, implementing integrated fish farming to enhance resource use efficiency and diversify farm income.
A type of mastitis caused by pathogens present in the cow’s environment, such as bedding and water. Environmental mastitis is managed through hygiene and management practices. For example, maintaining clean bedding to reduce the risk of environmental mastitis in dairy cows.
Deer Commission for Scotland: An association in Scotland which advises on best practices in wild deer management. Abbr DCS. Farmers involved in deer farming or managing land with wild deer populations should follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by the DCS. Implementing best practices in deer management can improve herd health, reduce disease risk, and enhance the sustainability of deer populations.
Portland: A rare breed of sheep. Both sexes are horned, with brown or tan faces and legs. Helpful content: Portland sheep are known for their hardiness and adaptability to various environments. Farmers can benefit from raising this rare breed due to its resilience and the unique qualities of its wool and meat.
mulch: A layer of material applied to the surface of soil to conserve moisture, improve fertility, and reduce weed growth. Using mulch can enhance soil health and crop yields.
sludge: a thick wet substance, especially wet mud or snow; the solid or semi-solid part of sewage. Proper management of sludge ensures it can be used as a valuable resource for soil fertility and waste management, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
ringworm: Any of various infections of the skin by a fungus, in which the infection spreads out in a circle from a central point. Managing ringworm is essential for protecting livestock and human health on the farm.
salivate: To produce saliva. Farmers benefit from observing salivation patterns to detect potential health issues in livestock.
An essential nutrient in milk, important for growth and repair in the body. Milk protein is used in various dairy products, including cheese and yogurt. For instance, enhancing milk protein levels through selective breeding and nutrition management.
A setup for providing water to livestock, including troughs, automatic waterers, and pipelines. Adequate water supply is essential for animal health and productivity. For example, installing an automatic watering system in a pasture to ensure cattle have constant access to fresh water.