immunisation: The production of immunity to a specific disease, either by injecting an antiserum or by giving an individual the disease in such a small dose that the body does not develop the disease, but produces antibodies to counteract it. Helps farmers protect livestock from diseases.
National Institute of Agricultural Botany: NIAB is an organization in the UK that tests all new varieties of crops. After successful testing, the varieties are made available to farmers. Abbr NIAB. The National Institute of Agricultural Botany plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and performance of crop varieties. Farmers benefit from NIAB’s rigorous testing by gaining access to high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-adapted crop varieties. Utilizing NIAB-approved seeds can lead to improved crop performance, higher productivity, and greater resilience to environmental stresses, contributing to sustainable farming practices.
respiratory system: A series of organs and passages that take air into the lungs and exchange oxygen for carbon dioxide. Maintaining healthy respiratory systems in livestock ensures their overall health and productivity.
The powerful computing systems that use HPC to perform advanced simulations, modeling, and analysis in food production and distribution. For example, using food product HPC clusters to accelerate research and development and improve decision-making.
Scottish Blackface: A very hardy breed of small mountain sheep. The fleece gives a long coarse springy wool, valued for making carpets. Older ewes are crossed with Border Leicester rams to give Greyface hybrids. Farmers benefit from raising Scottish Blackface sheep for their hardiness and valuable wool production.
distemper: An infectious disease affecting dogs, cats, and some other animals, causing fever, respiratory, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Managing distemper involves implementing proper biosecurity measures, vaccination, and regular health monitoring. Farmers should work with veterinarians to develop effective disease management plans and prevent outbreaks. Understanding the signs and symptoms of distemper will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.
Febrile: Referring to a fever. Managing febrile conditions in livestock is crucial for maintaining animal health and preventing disease outbreaks.
scrub: 1. Small trees and bushes 2. An area of land covered with small trees and bushes. Farmers benefit from managing scrubland to maintain biodiversity and prevent invasive species.
peppermint: An aromatic herb (Mentha piperata) which is cultivated to produce an oil used in confectionery, drinks, and toothpaste. Growing herbs like peppermint can provide additional income and diversify farm products.
Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate: A branch of Defra which deals with plant health in the UK. Abbr PHSI. Helpful content: The Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate provides valuable services to farmers by monitoring and controlling plant pests and diseases. Their inspections and certifications help ensure the health and quality of crops, facilitating trade and market access.