The technologies and practices used to identify, assess, and mitigate vulnerabilities in food production and distribution systems, including patch management, scanning, and risk assessment. For example, implementing food product vulnerability management solutions to enhance security and reduce risks.
Microscopic worms that live in the soil and play a role in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant health. Soil nematodes can be beneficial or harmful, depending on their feeding habits. For example, promoting beneficial soil nematodes through organic farming practices to enhance soil health and support sustainable agriculture.
The study of living organisms in the soil and their interactions with each other and the soil environment. Soil biology helps understand how soil organisms contribute to soil health and fertility. For example, studying the role of soil microbes in nutrient cycling and plant growth to improve soil management practices.
stem rust: a disease of wheat, infecting the stem. Managing stem rust ensures healthy wheat crops, preventing yield losses and maintaining quality.
natural immunity: immunity from disease inherited by newborn offspring from birth, acquired in the womb or from the mothers milk. Natural immunity provides young animals with protection against common diseases, reducing the need for medical interventions and enhancing animal welfare. Farmers can benefit from understanding and promoting natural immunity through proper breeding practices, ensuring good maternal health, and providing optimal nutrition for pregnant and lactating animals. This can lead to healthier livestock, reduced veterinary costs, and improved productivity.
Commensal: Commensal /k?mens?l/ noun an organism which lives on another plant or animal but does not harm it or influence it in any way. Parasite, symbiont adjective referring to a commensal. Understanding commensal relationships helps manage ecosystem balance and biodiversity.
xerosere: Xerosere is a succession of communities growing in dry conditions. Knowledge of xerosere helps farmers understand ecological succession and manage land in arid regions.
NAWT: abbreviation for National Animal Welfare Trust. NAWT provides short-term care and rehabilitation for unwanted and abused animals, promoting humane treatment and welfare standards. Farmers can collaborate with NAWT to ensure the well-being of their animals, enhance animal welfare practices, and access resources for animal care and management. High animal welfare standards lead to healthier livestock, better product quality, and a positive reputation among consumers. Partnering with organizations like NAWT can also provide support and guidance in managing farm animal welfare issues.
retinol: A vitamin that is soluble in fat and can be formed in the body but is mainly found in food such as liver, vegetables, eggs, and cod liver oil. Also called vitamin A. Ensuring adequate retinol intake supports livestock health and growth.
Lambing Sickness: Lambing sickness is a bacterial disease of sheep picked up from the soil, which can cause rapid death. Managing lambing sickness through vaccination and proper hygiene can prevent significant losses in sheep flocks.