This study compared ant diversity between a polyculture farm called Lick Run Farm and a monoculture farm growing transgenic corn called Michael Beahm Farm. Ants were collected using pitfall traps from both farms. Results showed higher ant species richness and diversity at Lick Run Farm compared to Michael Beahm Farm, likely due to the differing habitats created by polyculture versus monoculture agricultural practices.
Sustainable Agriculture and the Future of FoodPablo Martin
This slideshow discusses a number of different approaches to sustainable agriculture with a focus on ways to minimize environmental impacts. The influence of Borlaug and Vogt on agriculture are discussed as well.
The Green Revolution, Animal Agriculture, and GMOsPablo Martin
This slideshow discusses the Green Revolution and the other industrial breakthroughs in agriculture, including animal husbandry and GMOs, with a discussion of their environmental impacts.
Vermicomposting: A Better Option for Organic Solid Waste Managementx3G9
This document discusses the management of solid waste through vermicomposting. It begins by introducing the growing problem of solid waste management. It then defines vermicomposting as using earthworms to break down organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. The document discusses how at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun, India, a project is using vermicomposting to generate income for rural women by turning organic waste into valuable compost using the earthworm species Eisenia foetida. The project aims to train 1,000 women in vermicomposting techniques to improve waste management and provide an additional source of income through the sale of vermicompost.
This document discusses the process of plant domestication. It begins by defining domestication and explaining how early humans selected traits like large plant parts and thick flesh in domesticated food plants. It then provides details on the benefits of domestication, the five levels of domestication, and the domestication syndrome. The document also examines outstanding questions in domestication research and insights from archeological and genetic studies. Specifically, it notes how domestication traits are influenced by a small number of regulatory genes and allows for rapid evolution.
This document summarizes perspectives on organic versus conventional farming from interviews with farmers and experts. Hans McPherson operates a "hybrid organic" farm that uses herbicides sparingly but focuses on soil health through cover crops and manure fertilizer. Jennifer Holmes of Lifeline Dairy uses organic and biodynamic practices to maintain soil and animal health long-term by avoiding pesticides and focusing on mechanical weed control. Both emphasize the importance of cover crops and soil biodiversity for healthy soil that can sustain crops without chemical dependence. Research also shows organic methods increase soil nutrients and yields over time compared to conventional methods.
Plant Domestication and selection in plant breeding SHWETA GUPTA
Plant domestication began around 10,000 years ago when humans began agriculture. Through domestication, humans brought wild plant species under human management by selecting for desirable traits. This led to changes in the physical characteristics of plants over many generations as domesticated plants became dependent on humans for propagation. The main purposes of domestication were to obtain food, clothing, shelter and medicines. The process involved natural selection, spontaneous mutations, and selective breeding to develop cultivated varieties that differed from their wild ancestors in traits like yield, germination rates, and disease resistance. Domestication made plants better suited for agriculture but also less resistant to stresses over time.
Genetically Modified Crops – A Potential Risk for Sustainable Agriculture.PDFGordana Zdjelar
This document discusses genetically modified crops and their potential risks and impact on sustainable agriculture. It notes that GM crops were developed to expedite crop improvement for food quality and solve problems in commercial agriculture like disease and weed management. However, their introduction has raised debates about environmental and food safety issues. The most common GM crop is herbicide-tolerant soybean, which occupies 50% of the global biotech area. A major problem is the outbreak of glyphosate-resistant weeds caused by overuse of herbicides on GM soybean crops.
poster50: Learning Agrobiodiversity the importance of agricultural biodiversi...CIAT
This document discusses the importance of agrobiodiversity, which includes the biological diversity in agricultural systems that provides food, fiber, and other products. Agrobiodiversity is in rapid decline due to changes in agriculture practices, land use, and climate change. However, agrobiodiversity is rarely taught at universities. A review found few universities offer full programs or dedicated courses on agrobiodiversity, though some include elements of it in other courses. There is a need to better integrate agrobiodiversity across disciplines and educational systems to address this gap.
Sustainable Agriculture and the Future of FoodPablo Martin
This slideshow discusses a number of different approaches to sustainable agriculture with a focus on ways to minimize environmental impacts. The influence of Borlaug and Vogt on agriculture are discussed as well.
The Green Revolution, Animal Agriculture, and GMOsPablo Martin
This slideshow discusses the Green Revolution and the other industrial breakthroughs in agriculture, including animal husbandry and GMOs, with a discussion of their environmental impacts.
Vermicomposting: A Better Option for Organic Solid Waste Managementx3G9
This document discusses the management of solid waste through vermicomposting. It begins by introducing the growing problem of solid waste management. It then defines vermicomposting as using earthworms to break down organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. The document discusses how at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun, India, a project is using vermicomposting to generate income for rural women by turning organic waste into valuable compost using the earthworm species Eisenia foetida. The project aims to train 1,000 women in vermicomposting techniques to improve waste management and provide an additional source of income through the sale of vermicompost.
This document discusses the process of plant domestication. It begins by defining domestication and explaining how early humans selected traits like large plant parts and thick flesh in domesticated food plants. It then provides details on the benefits of domestication, the five levels of domestication, and the domestication syndrome. The document also examines outstanding questions in domestication research and insights from archeological and genetic studies. Specifically, it notes how domestication traits are influenced by a small number of regulatory genes and allows for rapid evolution.
This document summarizes perspectives on organic versus conventional farming from interviews with farmers and experts. Hans McPherson operates a "hybrid organic" farm that uses herbicides sparingly but focuses on soil health through cover crops and manure fertilizer. Jennifer Holmes of Lifeline Dairy uses organic and biodynamic practices to maintain soil and animal health long-term by avoiding pesticides and focusing on mechanical weed control. Both emphasize the importance of cover crops and soil biodiversity for healthy soil that can sustain crops without chemical dependence. Research also shows organic methods increase soil nutrients and yields over time compared to conventional methods.
Plant Domestication and selection in plant breeding SHWETA GUPTA
Plant domestication began around 10,000 years ago when humans began agriculture. Through domestication, humans brought wild plant species under human management by selecting for desirable traits. This led to changes in the physical characteristics of plants over many generations as domesticated plants became dependent on humans for propagation. The main purposes of domestication were to obtain food, clothing, shelter and medicines. The process involved natural selection, spontaneous mutations, and selective breeding to develop cultivated varieties that differed from their wild ancestors in traits like yield, germination rates, and disease resistance. Domestication made plants better suited for agriculture but also less resistant to stresses over time.
Genetically Modified Crops – A Potential Risk for Sustainable Agriculture.PDFGordana Zdjelar
This document discusses genetically modified crops and their potential risks and impact on sustainable agriculture. It notes that GM crops were developed to expedite crop improvement for food quality and solve problems in commercial agriculture like disease and weed management. However, their introduction has raised debates about environmental and food safety issues. The most common GM crop is herbicide-tolerant soybean, which occupies 50% of the global biotech area. A major problem is the outbreak of glyphosate-resistant weeds caused by overuse of herbicides on GM soybean crops.
poster50: Learning Agrobiodiversity the importance of agricultural biodiversi...CIAT
This document discusses the importance of agrobiodiversity, which includes the biological diversity in agricultural systems that provides food, fiber, and other products. Agrobiodiversity is in rapid decline due to changes in agriculture practices, land use, and climate change. However, agrobiodiversity is rarely taught at universities. A review found few universities offer full programs or dedicated courses on agrobiodiversity, though some include elements of it in other courses. There is a need to better integrate agrobiodiversity across disciplines and educational systems to address this gap.
Building on Traditional Gardening to Improve Household Food Security
`
For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159`
`
Companion Planting Increases Food Production from School Gardens
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
Eco-Farming Addresses Hunger, Poverty and Climate Changex3G9
1) A UN report shows that small-scale farmers can double their food production within 10 years using agroecological farming methods instead of industrial agriculture. Agroecology improves soil quality, uses natural pest control, and diversifies crops.
2) Studies have found agroecological methods increased yields by 79% on average in projects across 57 countries. In Africa yields increased by 116% on average. These methods improve incomes and livelihoods for small-scale farmers while preserving ecosystems.
3) Supporting small-scale farmers' transition to agroecology worldwide is vital for avoiding future food and climate crises, as agroecology addresses hunger, poverty, and climate change in a sustainable way.
Review on Postharvest Handling Practices of Root and Tuber Crops.Premier Publishers
The root and tuber crops, including cassava, sweet potato, yams, and aroids, enjoy considerable importance as a vegetable, staple food, or raw material for small‐scale industries at a global level, particularly in the less developed tropical countries. The perishability and postharvest losses of root and tuber crops are the major constraints in the utilization of these crops. Several simple, low‐cost traditional methods are being followed by fanners in different parts of the world to store different root and tuber crops in the fresh state. An account of different storage practices and constraints is reviewed in this article. Some of these methods have been studied and evaluated by different research workers. Several modern techniques, including refrigerated cold storage, freezing, chemical treatments, wax coating, and irradiation, for storing fresh tropical tubers are also reviewed. The pre‐ and postharvest factors to be considered for postharvest storage of different root and tuber crops are incorporated into the review.
The document discusses community agrobiodiversity conservation for food security and sustainable livelihoods. It describes using a 4C approach - conservation, cultivation, consumption and commerce - to empower marginal communities. Specific initiatives discussed include promoting traditional crops, cultivating climate resilient varieties, establishing community seed banks and food fairs, developing value chains for millet products, and recognizing custodian farmers. The approach aims to enhance conservation, capacity, and community resilience through participatory research and development.
This document summarizes topics related to genetic engineering including the Green Revolution, genetic erosion, traditional crossbreeding, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It describes how the Green Revolution increased agricultural production through high-yielding crop varieties but caused issues like pollution, soil erosion, and negative health effects. Genetic erosion is the loss of genetic diversity, which can be caused by habitat loss or lack of breeding. Traditional crossbreeding techniques include selection and hybridization to transfer traits, while genetic engineering directly inserts genes between unrelated species. The document discusses both perceived benefits and concerns about GMOs.
This document summarizes research on transgenic vegetables for horticulture. It discusses how transgenic crops can be used to enhance pest resistance, quality traits, and sustainability in vegetable production. Specifically, it reviews advances in transgenic tomato, potato, eggplant, squash and sweet corn. Transgenic tomatoes have been developed to delay fruit ripening. Transgenic potatoes with resistance to the Colorado potato beetle and viruses were commercialized in the 1990s but later removed from the market due to trade and consumer issues. The document argues that transgenic crops have potential to address challenges in vegetable production, but their development and commercialization faces high costs and regulatory hurdles.
The document discusses the threat to seed diversity from industrial agriculture and corporate control. It notes that only 150 of 80,000 edible plant species are cultivated, and just eight traded globally, leading to irreversible loss of seed varieties. Industrial agriculture prioritizes high yields but at the cost of biodiversity reduction. As a result, genetic diversity of domesticated plants is being destroyed at an unprecedented rate, threatening the future of seed, farmers, and global food security.
A 50-year experiment on fox domestication was conducted in Novosibirsk, Russia beginning in 1959. The experiment aimed to study the genetic changes underlying animal domestication by selectively breeding foxes for tameness towards humans. Over generations, the foxes selected for friendliness developed morphological traits like floppy ears, curled tails, and spotted coats similar to dogs. The results supported the hypothesis that selection for a single regulatory trait like behavior can induce changes across the genome by destabilizing developmental processes. This provided insights into the genetic mechanisms and parallel changes seen during animal domestication.
Evaluating Plantmate organic manure and prime EC foliar on plant performance ...Innspub Net
Trials for the effectiveness of Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food for increased yields for selected crops were done in five different Agro-ecological zones and soil types, in Kenya. The approach was executed through controlled greenhouse experiment and in the field. The trials data obtained indicated Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food in combination with half the rate of recommended inorganic fertilizer performed significantly (p<0.05) better than all other treatments. Thus, plots treated with Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food gave higher yields in common beans, French beans, maize, onions, cabbages, capsicum with percentages exceeding 100 compared to the control in most cases. In many soils fertilizers are fixed and rendered insoluble under certain soil conditions such as soil pH. The Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food ameliorated the soil conditions as it interacted with inorganic fertilizer thus increasing its use efficiency by crops. Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food not only increased soil chemical fertility but also improves water use efficiency at low matric potential and generally improves plant vigor and soil health.
“We have designed our pest problems into our current system of agriculture, so we can also design them out...if we understand ecology better. Thirty plus years of INTEGRATING farmscaping with other farm activities, strategies and resources will be featured, not just a rote list of plants and bugs. Many of the best farmscaping plants are flowers, medicinal herbs, and spices that can supplement and add value to your main crops and can be sold alongside them, like pickling spices (dill, garlic, grape leaves, etc.) for cucumbers. Bring your plant samples, questions, bug samples, or other farmscaping questions...no holds barred! Learn how to work backwards from your pest problems to the beneficials that attack your pests, to the plants and resources that YOUR beneficials need for control, and how these fit more neatly into your production program(s). Work smarter, not harder! Join longtime producer Patryk Battle and entomologist Richard “DrMcBug” McDonald in a lively, FUN, information filled session that will give you new insight into approaches for the NEW and OLD pests we face now. Yes, Carolina, farmscaping can be FUN!”
This document discusses modern farming methods and their drawbacks. It provides information on fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation techniques, harvesting, and storage used in modern agriculture. The text raises concerns that these intensive farming practices are depleting soils, polluting the environment, reducing nutrient levels in crops, and exposing consumers and farm workers to dangerous chemicals. Organic farming is presented as a more sustainable alternative that avoids these issues.
The document provides information about the domestication of crop plants, including:
- Domestication involves adapting wild plants for human use by selecting for desirable traits over generations.
- It began as early as 11,000 BC with rye and included major crops like wheat, peas, and bottle gourd in various regions including the Middle East, Asia, and Americas.
- Key scientists like de Candolle and Vavilov studied the origins and centers of domestication for many crops still important today. The process resulted in morphological and physiological changes collectively known as the domestication syndrome.
This document discusses soil, agroecosystem, and landscape health as it relates to sustainable food production. It covers topics such as soil health being the basis for sustainability, agroecosystem health through mimicking natural systems like the slash and mulch system, and landscape health through connecting agroecosystems. Case studies are provided on projects taking a landscape approach like the Nature Conservancy's Cosumnes River Project. The overall message is that sustainable food production requires restoring soil, agroecosystems, and the connectivity of the landscape.
This document discusses the history and concepts of agroecology. It provides context on the current state of global food security and agriculture. It then discusses key principles of agroecology, including biomass recycling, soil biological activity, biodiversity, and minimizing losses. Examples are given of agroecological farming practices and systems that mimic natural ecosystems. The document advocates for agroecology as an alternative paradigm to conventional agriculture that is more sustainable. It discusses challenges in further developing agroecology, including the need for public funding, supportive policies, and attracting new farmers.
Role of beneficial microbes in next green revolutionMehjebinRahman2
The document summarizes the keynote speech given by Miss Mehjebin Rahman on probing beneficial microbes for the next green revolution. It discusses how the green revolution significantly increased food production but led to various negative environmental consequences. It argues that the next green revolution needs a more sustainable approach, and that microbes have great potential to promote plant growth and stress resistance while maintaining sustainability. Several companies are developing microbial treatments to boost yields without synthetic fertilizers. The document outlines various plant growth promoting microbes and their mechanisms, such as nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and phytohormone production.
The document discusses the role of agricultural biodiversity in improving nutrition and diets in developing countries. It notes that loss of biodiversity has contributed to poor nutrition outcomes and outlines several traditional agroecosystems that optimize both yields and nutrient outputs through the use of diverse crop combinations and intercropping practices. These systems provide dietary diversity and complementarities that help address micronutrient deficiencies. The document also raises important open questions about how to scale agricultural biodiversity approaches to improve nutrition security.
Enhancing the roles of ecosystem services in agriculture: agroecological prin...FAO
Presentation from Etienne Hainzelin from CIRAD, describing the principles of agroecological systems and the role of research within these. The presentation was prepared and delivered in occasion of the International Symposium on Agroecology for Food Security and Nutrition, held at FAO in Rome on 18-19 September 2014.
A presentation by Pablo B. Eyzaguirre given at Bioversity International Rome HQ on 24 May 2011. A look at Bioversity’s unique role linking biodiversity, food security, resilience, livelihoods and culture.
Tinder has reinforced hookup culture on college campuses since launching in 2012. The researcher conducted a mixed methods study of Tinder users, including surveying 25 users and interviewing those who use it for hookups and relationships. Survey results found most users are ages 18-25, use it for entertainment, and strategically create profiles. While some initial interactions are overtly sexual, most aim to represent themselves accurately to ensure safety when meeting offline. Tinder alters initial romantic interactions by providing an online rather than in-person means of connecting.
This document summarizes a market research project conducted for Express Tan, a tanning salon company. The project involved surveying customers and non-customers to understand perceptions of indoor tanning and Express Tan. Key findings included that younger people view tanning more negatively, location is important in choosing a salon, and while customers are generally satisfied with Express Tan, their main competitor Sun Tan City was considered better. The summary provides details on research objectives, methods, findings, limitations, and conclusions.
Building on Traditional Gardening to Improve Household Food Security
`
For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159`
`
Companion Planting Increases Food Production from School Gardens
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
Eco-Farming Addresses Hunger, Poverty and Climate Changex3G9
1) A UN report shows that small-scale farmers can double their food production within 10 years using agroecological farming methods instead of industrial agriculture. Agroecology improves soil quality, uses natural pest control, and diversifies crops.
2) Studies have found agroecological methods increased yields by 79% on average in projects across 57 countries. In Africa yields increased by 116% on average. These methods improve incomes and livelihoods for small-scale farmers while preserving ecosystems.
3) Supporting small-scale farmers' transition to agroecology worldwide is vital for avoiding future food and climate crises, as agroecology addresses hunger, poverty, and climate change in a sustainable way.
Review on Postharvest Handling Practices of Root and Tuber Crops.Premier Publishers
The root and tuber crops, including cassava, sweet potato, yams, and aroids, enjoy considerable importance as a vegetable, staple food, or raw material for small‐scale industries at a global level, particularly in the less developed tropical countries. The perishability and postharvest losses of root and tuber crops are the major constraints in the utilization of these crops. Several simple, low‐cost traditional methods are being followed by fanners in different parts of the world to store different root and tuber crops in the fresh state. An account of different storage practices and constraints is reviewed in this article. Some of these methods have been studied and evaluated by different research workers. Several modern techniques, including refrigerated cold storage, freezing, chemical treatments, wax coating, and irradiation, for storing fresh tropical tubers are also reviewed. The pre‐ and postharvest factors to be considered for postharvest storage of different root and tuber crops are incorporated into the review.
The document discusses community agrobiodiversity conservation for food security and sustainable livelihoods. It describes using a 4C approach - conservation, cultivation, consumption and commerce - to empower marginal communities. Specific initiatives discussed include promoting traditional crops, cultivating climate resilient varieties, establishing community seed banks and food fairs, developing value chains for millet products, and recognizing custodian farmers. The approach aims to enhance conservation, capacity, and community resilience through participatory research and development.
This document summarizes topics related to genetic engineering including the Green Revolution, genetic erosion, traditional crossbreeding, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It describes how the Green Revolution increased agricultural production through high-yielding crop varieties but caused issues like pollution, soil erosion, and negative health effects. Genetic erosion is the loss of genetic diversity, which can be caused by habitat loss or lack of breeding. Traditional crossbreeding techniques include selection and hybridization to transfer traits, while genetic engineering directly inserts genes between unrelated species. The document discusses both perceived benefits and concerns about GMOs.
This document summarizes research on transgenic vegetables for horticulture. It discusses how transgenic crops can be used to enhance pest resistance, quality traits, and sustainability in vegetable production. Specifically, it reviews advances in transgenic tomato, potato, eggplant, squash and sweet corn. Transgenic tomatoes have been developed to delay fruit ripening. Transgenic potatoes with resistance to the Colorado potato beetle and viruses were commercialized in the 1990s but later removed from the market due to trade and consumer issues. The document argues that transgenic crops have potential to address challenges in vegetable production, but their development and commercialization faces high costs and regulatory hurdles.
The document discusses the threat to seed diversity from industrial agriculture and corporate control. It notes that only 150 of 80,000 edible plant species are cultivated, and just eight traded globally, leading to irreversible loss of seed varieties. Industrial agriculture prioritizes high yields but at the cost of biodiversity reduction. As a result, genetic diversity of domesticated plants is being destroyed at an unprecedented rate, threatening the future of seed, farmers, and global food security.
A 50-year experiment on fox domestication was conducted in Novosibirsk, Russia beginning in 1959. The experiment aimed to study the genetic changes underlying animal domestication by selectively breeding foxes for tameness towards humans. Over generations, the foxes selected for friendliness developed morphological traits like floppy ears, curled tails, and spotted coats similar to dogs. The results supported the hypothesis that selection for a single regulatory trait like behavior can induce changes across the genome by destabilizing developmental processes. This provided insights into the genetic mechanisms and parallel changes seen during animal domestication.
Evaluating Plantmate organic manure and prime EC foliar on plant performance ...Innspub Net
Trials for the effectiveness of Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food for increased yields for selected crops were done in five different Agro-ecological zones and soil types, in Kenya. The approach was executed through controlled greenhouse experiment and in the field. The trials data obtained indicated Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food in combination with half the rate of recommended inorganic fertilizer performed significantly (p<0.05) better than all other treatments. Thus, plots treated with Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food gave higher yields in common beans, French beans, maize, onions, cabbages, capsicum with percentages exceeding 100 compared to the control in most cases. In many soils fertilizers are fixed and rendered insoluble under certain soil conditions such as soil pH. The Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food ameliorated the soil conditions as it interacted with inorganic fertilizer thus increasing its use efficiency by crops. Plantmate organic manure and Prime EC Foliar Plant Food not only increased soil chemical fertility but also improves water use efficiency at low matric potential and generally improves plant vigor and soil health.
“We have designed our pest problems into our current system of agriculture, so we can also design them out...if we understand ecology better. Thirty plus years of INTEGRATING farmscaping with other farm activities, strategies and resources will be featured, not just a rote list of plants and bugs. Many of the best farmscaping plants are flowers, medicinal herbs, and spices that can supplement and add value to your main crops and can be sold alongside them, like pickling spices (dill, garlic, grape leaves, etc.) for cucumbers. Bring your plant samples, questions, bug samples, or other farmscaping questions...no holds barred! Learn how to work backwards from your pest problems to the beneficials that attack your pests, to the plants and resources that YOUR beneficials need for control, and how these fit more neatly into your production program(s). Work smarter, not harder! Join longtime producer Patryk Battle and entomologist Richard “DrMcBug” McDonald in a lively, FUN, information filled session that will give you new insight into approaches for the NEW and OLD pests we face now. Yes, Carolina, farmscaping can be FUN!”
This document discusses modern farming methods and their drawbacks. It provides information on fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation techniques, harvesting, and storage used in modern agriculture. The text raises concerns that these intensive farming practices are depleting soils, polluting the environment, reducing nutrient levels in crops, and exposing consumers and farm workers to dangerous chemicals. Organic farming is presented as a more sustainable alternative that avoids these issues.
The document provides information about the domestication of crop plants, including:
- Domestication involves adapting wild plants for human use by selecting for desirable traits over generations.
- It began as early as 11,000 BC with rye and included major crops like wheat, peas, and bottle gourd in various regions including the Middle East, Asia, and Americas.
- Key scientists like de Candolle and Vavilov studied the origins and centers of domestication for many crops still important today. The process resulted in morphological and physiological changes collectively known as the domestication syndrome.
This document discusses soil, agroecosystem, and landscape health as it relates to sustainable food production. It covers topics such as soil health being the basis for sustainability, agroecosystem health through mimicking natural systems like the slash and mulch system, and landscape health through connecting agroecosystems. Case studies are provided on projects taking a landscape approach like the Nature Conservancy's Cosumnes River Project. The overall message is that sustainable food production requires restoring soil, agroecosystems, and the connectivity of the landscape.
This document discusses the history and concepts of agroecology. It provides context on the current state of global food security and agriculture. It then discusses key principles of agroecology, including biomass recycling, soil biological activity, biodiversity, and minimizing losses. Examples are given of agroecological farming practices and systems that mimic natural ecosystems. The document advocates for agroecology as an alternative paradigm to conventional agriculture that is more sustainable. It discusses challenges in further developing agroecology, including the need for public funding, supportive policies, and attracting new farmers.
Role of beneficial microbes in next green revolutionMehjebinRahman2
The document summarizes the keynote speech given by Miss Mehjebin Rahman on probing beneficial microbes for the next green revolution. It discusses how the green revolution significantly increased food production but led to various negative environmental consequences. It argues that the next green revolution needs a more sustainable approach, and that microbes have great potential to promote plant growth and stress resistance while maintaining sustainability. Several companies are developing microbial treatments to boost yields without synthetic fertilizers. The document outlines various plant growth promoting microbes and their mechanisms, such as nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and phytohormone production.
The document discusses the role of agricultural biodiversity in improving nutrition and diets in developing countries. It notes that loss of biodiversity has contributed to poor nutrition outcomes and outlines several traditional agroecosystems that optimize both yields and nutrient outputs through the use of diverse crop combinations and intercropping practices. These systems provide dietary diversity and complementarities that help address micronutrient deficiencies. The document also raises important open questions about how to scale agricultural biodiversity approaches to improve nutrition security.
Enhancing the roles of ecosystem services in agriculture: agroecological prin...FAO
Presentation from Etienne Hainzelin from CIRAD, describing the principles of agroecological systems and the role of research within these. The presentation was prepared and delivered in occasion of the International Symposium on Agroecology for Food Security and Nutrition, held at FAO in Rome on 18-19 September 2014.
A presentation by Pablo B. Eyzaguirre given at Bioversity International Rome HQ on 24 May 2011. A look at Bioversity’s unique role linking biodiversity, food security, resilience, livelihoods and culture.
Tinder has reinforced hookup culture on college campuses since launching in 2012. The researcher conducted a mixed methods study of Tinder users, including surveying 25 users and interviewing those who use it for hookups and relationships. Survey results found most users are ages 18-25, use it for entertainment, and strategically create profiles. While some initial interactions are overtly sexual, most aim to represent themselves accurately to ensure safety when meeting offline. Tinder alters initial romantic interactions by providing an online rather than in-person means of connecting.
This document summarizes a market research project conducted for Express Tan, a tanning salon company. The project involved surveying customers and non-customers to understand perceptions of indoor tanning and Express Tan. Key findings included that younger people view tanning more negatively, location is important in choosing a salon, and while customers are generally satisfied with Express Tan, their main competitor Sun Tan City was considered better. The summary provides details on research objectives, methods, findings, limitations, and conclusions.
The document discusses Southwest Airlines, a major U.S. airline founded in 1967 with headquarters in Dallas, Texas. It provides an overview of Southwest's business model, competitors, and financial performance. It also analyzes trends in the airline industry, such as fluctuating oil prices and increasing international flights, and their impact on Southwest relative to other carriers. While these trends present equal challenges across the industry, the document recommends Southwest partner with international carriers and consider acquisitions to enhance its global reach and market share.
The document summarizes market research conducted on Express Tan, a tanning salon business. A group of students identified strategic issues and conducted a survey to understand customer expectations, target markets, and marketing issues. The survey findings showed that while customers were generally satisfied, younger people view tanning more negatively. It was found that location and customer service were important factors for customers when choosing where to tan. The research aimed to provide Express Tan with insights and recommendations to effectively market their business based on the analyzed data.
La brújula es un instrumento para orientarse que consiste en una caja con una aguja imantada que gira libremente y siempre apunta al norte. Fue inventada en China entre los siglos IX y XI utilizando magnetita. Más tarde, la brújula se convirtió en una herramienta clave para la navegación durante la era de los descubrimientos. Está compuesta por una aguja imantada que gira sobre un limbo o esfera graduada contenidos dentro de una caja.
The group proposed launching a live tiger camera website called TigerRescueCam.com to generate donations for Carolina Tiger Rescue. They would install GoPro cameras to live stream tigers and send text alerts about special events to engage people and inspire donations. Their budget allocated $4,525 for the camera system, $5,475 for Google and Facebook advertising, and expected to measure increased donations, website engagement, and social media attention from the campaign.
Procter & Gamble, founded in 1837, is considering whether to discontinue its Ivory brand of soap, which was the company's first product. Ivory sales have been declining as consumers have switched to liquid soaps. However, removing Ivory could damage P&G's reputation as the brand has deep roots in the company's history. The document discusses three solutions: 1) Redesign and reintroduce Ivory to appeal to new customers, 2) Promote Ivory as an organic product to attract environmentally conscious consumers, or 3) Discontinue Ivory to focus on growing brands. The best solution is to first try redesigning and reintroducing Ivory before removing a brand integral to P
El documento habla sobre el refrigerador y su historia. Explica que Charles Tellier inventó un dispositivo para fabricar hielo y luego se enfocó en crear una máquina que generara frío industrial. También describe que los refrigeradores domésticos pueden tener un solo compartimiento o dos, y que su principal uso es mantener los alimentos frescos en la cocina. Finalmente, menciona que uno de los primeros refrigeradores fue inventado en 1876 y que algunos hombres usan el refrigerador principalmente para enfriar cervezas.
Tinder has reinforced hookup culture on college campuses since launching in 2012. The researcher conducted a mixed methods study of Tinder users, including surveying 25 users and interviewing those who use it for hookups and relationships. Survey results found most users are ages 18-25, use it for entertainment, and strategically create profiles. While initial interactions are often overtly sexual, many find accurate profiles and some start relationships. In conclusion, users aim to accurately represent themselves while benefitting from Tinder's online format, though in-person dynamics differ.
La brújula es un instrumento para orientarse que consiste en una caja con una aguja imantada que gira libremente y siempre apunta al norte. Fue inventada en China entre los siglos IX y XI utilizando magnetita. Más tarde, la brújula se convirtió en una herramienta clave para la navegación durante la era de los descubrimientos. Está compuesta por una aguja imantada que gira sobre un limbo o esfera graduada contenidos dentro de una caja.
Tinder has reinforced hookup culture on college campuses since launching in 2012. The researcher conducted a mixed methods study of Tinder users, including surveying 25 users and interviewing those who use it for hookups and relationships. Survey results found most users are ages 18-25, use it for entertainment, and strategically create profiles. While some initial messages are overtly sexual, most aim to start casual conversation. Overall, Tinder alters initial interactions but many find accurate profiles through connecting on other platforms.
Concept and principle of organic farming(Pragya tiwari).docxPragyaTiwari69
Organic farming is defined as an agricultural system that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, growth regulators, and livestock feed additives. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity, and cycles adapted to local conditions. Organic farming aims to increase long-term soil fertility, control pests without harming the environment, ensure clean water, and produce nutritious food using resources already available on the farm. The principles of organic farming are health, fairness, ecological balance, and care. Modern farming is often unsustainable due to loss of soil fertility and pollution from chemical use, while organic farming builds healthy soil and combats issues like erosion.
This document discusses genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the debate surrounding their use. It explores how genetic modification has been used to develop high-yield crops but relies heavily on pesticides and herbicides. Most biotech research is dominated by Monsanto, which has patented many GMO seeds, including "Roundup Ready" crops resistant to its herbicide Roundup. However, critics argue that patents increase costs for small farmers and could allow Monsanto to monopolize crop markets. The document also discusses concerns about monoculture farming and the loss of ancient crop varieties that may be better suited to different environments.
A Guide to Seed Saving: You too Can be a Seed Saver
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This document discusses the benefits of organic farming using vermicompost (earthworm compost) as an alternative to chemical farming. It summarizes that chemical farming has degraded soils and harmed human health over decades of use, while earthworm compost can boost crop production without chemicals while improving soil and sequestering carbon. Earthworm compost is shown to be highly nutritive for plants, rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes, and can help protect against pests and diseases. Organic farming with vermicompost also produces safer, more nutritive foods and mitigates environmental issues like greenhouse gas emissions and soil degradation caused by chemical agriculture.
Organic Farming by Vermiculture: Producing Safe, Nutritive and Protective Foo...x3G9
1. Chemical agriculture has boosted food production but damaged soils, decreased food nutrition, and harmed human health through pesticide poisoning.
2. Organic farming using earthworm vermicompost can produce high, nutritious yields while improving soil fertility and suppressing pests in a sustainable way.
3. Vermicompost is rich in nutrients, beneficial microbes, and plant growth hormones, and helps retain soil carbon and moisture to reduce emissions and irrigation needs.
This document provides an overview of seed saving and discusses various types of seeds including open pollinated seeds, hybrid seeds, genetically engineered seeds, and terminator seeds. It notes that open pollinated seeds have been developed by farmers over many years, while hybrid and genetically engineered seeds require purchase from companies each year. The document also summarizes the impacts and issues associated with the Green Revolution, including increased pesticide use, loss of biodiversity, and negative environmental and social consequences. It discusses concepts like seed sovereignty, intellectual property rights, biopiracy, and the pressures farmers face regarding what seeds they can grow.
GM crops are debated for their environmental impacts. Potential benefits include reduced pesticide use from Bt crops and conservation tillage from herbicide-tolerant varieties. However, risks include Bt toxin harming non-target species like butterflies, the development of pest resistance, and herbicide-tolerant weeds. Comprehensive environmental assessments are needed to understand both risks and benefits of each GM trait.
transgenic for crop improvement , global scenario and prospects anubhav aryal
Transgenic crops have been developed since the 1980s to introduce desirable traits like pest or disease resistance. The first commercially grown transgenic crops in the 1990s were FlavrSavr tomatoes and herbicide-resistant soybeans. Global transgenic crop area has grown significantly, reaching 160 million hectares in 2011 led by the US, Brazil, India, and Argentina. Transgenic crops can help address issues of rising population and food insecurity by increasing yields, but also raise some risks to human and environmental health that require assessment and management of biosafety issues.
This document discusses organic farming of vegetables in India. It notes that while the Green Revolution boosted production through chemical fertilizers and irrigation, this led to environmental problems and soil degradation over time. Organic farming is presented as a more sustainable alternative that maintains soil health and nutrient levels without chemicals. The key concepts of organic farming are outlined, such as building soil fertility, controlling pests through ecological methods, and recycling nutrients. India has potential for organic farming given its limited chemical use in many rain-fed areas. Technologies discussed to support organic farming include developing resistant crop varieties, using biofertilizers and compost, and integrating organic and chemical inputs.
This document summarizes organic farming of vegetables in India, including its problems and prospects. It discusses how green revolution technologies have led to issues like soil degradation and environmental pollution. It then introduces organic farming as a more sustainable alternative that focuses on soil health by using organic nutrients and pest/disease control. The document provides definitions of organic farming from various sources and outlines its basic concepts and characteristics, which center around building soil fertility without synthetic chemicals and maintaining ecological balances.
This document summarizes organic farming of vegetables in India, including its problems and prospects. It discusses how green revolution technologies have led to issues like soil degradation and environmental pollution. It then introduces organic farming as a more sustainable alternative that focuses on soil health by using organic nutrients and pest/disease control. The document provides definitions of organic farming from various sources and outlines its basic concepts and characteristics, which center around building soil fertility without synthetic chemicals and maintaining ecological balances.
Mycorrhizae Make the Difference by Paul Reed Hepperly and David Douds- Crimso...CrimsonpublishersMCDA
This document provides an overview of mycorrhizal fungi and their importance in soil and plant health. Some key points:
- Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, helping plants absorb water and nutrients from soil in exchange for carbohydrates. About 80% of plants depend on these relationships.
- Studies have shown that biological agricultural practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and organic amendments can increase mycorrhizal diversity and activity compared to conventional systems relying on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
- The glomalin protein produced by mycorrhizal fungi helps aggregate soil particles, improving soil structure and water retention. This increases carbon storage in soil and
This document presents a report on crop domestication authored by three students. It discusses the key concepts of domestication including the genetic modification of wild plants by humans to meet their needs. Some major findings are summarized as follows:
- Crop domestication began as early as 11,000 BC with rye and progressed with grains like peas and wheat in the Middle East around 9000 BC. Major centers of early domestication included the Near East, China, Mesoamerica, and South America.
- Domestication results in morphological and physiological changes in plants through human selection over generations. Traits like seed shattering are reduced while fruit and seed size often increase.
- Pioneer scientists like De Cand
The document discusses the history and applications of agricultural biotechnology. It begins with the early domestication of crops by farmers selecting desirable traits over thousands of years. More recently, biotechnology has been used to develop crops with increased yields, disease resistance, and nutritional value. Examples discussed include Golden Rice, which was engineered to produce beta-carotene to address vitamin A deficiency, and the development of pesticide-resistant crops and plants that can serve as vaccines when ingested. The document also examines the use of biotechnology to improve animal health, create antibiotics, and enhance the traits of ornamental plants and flowers.
All living organisms have the ability
to improve themselves through
natural means in order to adapt to
changing environmental conditions.
However, it takes hundreds of years
before any detectable improvement
is obtained. Man then learned how
to domesticate and breed plants
in order to develop crops to his
own liking and needs using various
means including biotechnology.
Biotechnology is defined as
a set of tools that uses living
organisms (or parts of organisms)
to make or modify a product,
improve plants, trees or animals,
or develop microorganisms
for specific uses. Agricultural
biotechnology is the term used in
crop and livestock improvement
through biotechnology tools. This
monograph will focus only on
agricultural crop biotechnology.
Biotechnology encompasses a
number of tools and elements of
conventional breeding techniques,
bioinformatics, microbiology,
molecular genetics, biochemistry,
plant physiology, and molecular
biology.
The biotechnology tools that
are important for agricultural
biotechnology include:
- Conventional plant breeding
- Tissue culture and
micropropagation
- Molecular breeding or marker
assisted selection
- Genetic engineering and GM
crops
- Molecular Diagnostic Tools
- Organic farming is more environmentally friendly than conventional farming as it avoids the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Organic farming relies more on natural processes to nourish soils and protect crops.
- Conventional farming is controlled by large agribusinesses and relies on monocultures, fossil fuel-based inputs, and global distribution of commodities for profit. This model is unsustainable and damages the environment.
- Organic markets are growing rapidly as consumers demand healthier, locally-grown food. Organic farming is better for both the environment and local economies compared to the corporate-controlled, conventional system.
This document discusses current developments in organic farming. It begins with an overview of organic farming practices, principles, and regulations. Organic farming aims to use natural materials and processes to produce food in a sustainable way that protects human and environmental health. It has grown rapidly in recent years. The document then discusses key aspects of organic farming such as soil quality improvements, labor requirements, crop rotation challenges, and yield impacts. It also defines organic farming and reviews its production requirements regarding crops, livestock, and nutrient management strategies. Finally, the document examines regulations for organic farming in different regions such as the EU and Mexico.
This document discusses current developments in organic farming. It begins with an overview of organic farming practices and principles, noting that organic farming aims to protect human health and the environment through sustainable practices like nutrient recycling and limiting synthetic inputs. The document then discusses key aspects of organic farming such as labor requirements, crop rotation challenges, and typical yields. It provides definitions of organic farming from various organizations and outlines general production requirements, emphasizing that organic farming relies more on natural processes and local resources than conventional farming.
This document discusses organic farming in India. It defines organic farming as using green manure, compost, crop rotation, and biological pest control instead of chemicals. The objectives of organic farming are to increase genetic diversity, promote natural pesticides, ensure proper soil cultivation, and maintain soil structure and fertility. Sikkim has been declared India's first fully organic state. The government is taking several initiatives to promote organic farming such as missions and schemes. Organic farming provides benefits like improved nutrition, environmental sustainability, and food security.
Nearly 20 Years of Bt Hybrids: What Have We Learned and Where Do We Go from Here?
The document summarizes the lessons learned from nearly 20 years of using Bt corn hybrids in the midwestern US corn belt. It discusses the initial benefits of Bt corn in reducing pesticide use and increasing yields. However, it also notes that western corn rootworm has now evolved resistance to some Bt proteins. Additionally, excessive use of neonicotinoid seed treatments and prophylactic soil insecticides threatens the sustainability of current pest management approaches. The future of pest management will require re-emphasizing integrated pest management principles like scouting and economic thresholds over insurance-based overuse of chemicals
Long-Term Agricultural Research: A Means to Achieve Resilient Agricultural Pr...
FINAL THESIS PAPER
1. 1
A Study Comparing Ant Richness and Diversity Between Two Agricultural
Ecosystems: Polyculture versus Monoculture
Abagail E. Davis and Valerie S. Banschbach (Advisor)
Department of Environmental Studies, Roanoke College Salem, Virginia
29 April 2015
2. 2
ABSTRACT
In today’s agriculture, there are two types of farming methods: monoculture
and polyculture. Monoculture is born out of the industrial system and is when one
crop is planted on a single plot of land (Vandermeer, 2011). In contrast, polyculture
is typically smaller operations, organic, and the practice of planting a variety of
crops on a single plot of land (Vandermeer, 2011). Both agricultural methods
produce differing ecosystems. Typically found on large monoculture operations are
transgenic organisms like Bt-Corn. Corn is a crucial cash crop for small-scale and
large, industrial farmers with the United States leading the way in production and
exportation (Barton and Clark, 2014). However, with global climate change
constantly looming, farmers have observed an increase in corn pest species like the
European corn borer and corn earworm (Dively and Rose, 2003).
Therefore, agricultural researchers have developed a genetically engineered
corn crop composed of Bacillus thuringiensus, a gram-positive soil bacterium that
has insecticidal characteristics to combat pest issues on large-scale monocultures
(Sanchis and Bourguet, 2008). This study explored the question of whether differing
agricultural practices of monoculture and polyculture affect species richness and
diversity of ants on two farms: an polyculture farm called Lick Run Farm, and a
monoculture farm with transgenic corn called Michael Beahm Farm. Results indicate
species richness and diversity is higher on Lick Run Farm than on Michael Beahm
Farm. Higher diversity and richness is likely based on the monoculture At Michael
Beahm Farm versus polyculture agricultural methods at Lick Run Farm.
3. 3
INTRODUCTION
In an age of agricultural revitalization in the United States, consumers are
beginning to put more thought into their food purchases, and gravitating more
towards food items that have been cultivated sustainably (Irving et al., 2001). The
current agricultural paradigm in the United States is fueled by the industrial system
with goals of growth, profit, and productivity. This paradigm is driven by
monoculture, or the cultivation of a single crop on a plot of land (Vandermeer,
2011). Monoculture is favored in the industrial agricultural ecosystem because it is
less work than its alternative, and it speaks to productivity (Vaandermeer, 2011).
An alternative to monoculture; on the other hand, is polyculture. Polyculture is the
cultivation of many varieties of crops on a single plot of land together at the same
time (Vandermeer, 2011). Monoculture and polyculture, in essence, are differing
habitats. The biology and ecology for both forms of agriculture are differing. This
difference will be illustrated using the two farm sites used for this study: Lick Run
Farm and Michael Beahm Farm.
Lick Run Farm is an organic, but not certified, 3-acre polyculture farm in the
heart of the city of Roanoke, Virginia. It is surrounded by urban environment with
houses in every direction. Prior to becoming Lick Run Farm, the property was home
to a nursery called Crowell Nursery (Crawford, 2011). The soil prior to Lick Run
Farm ownership was degraded and lacking important nutrients. In an effort to
restore the soil, Rick Williams, the owner of Lick Run Farm, began planting cover
crops. Organic, polyculture farmers often use cover crops, or crops planted to add
4. 4
nutrients back to the soil and protect against erosion. Examples of cover crops are
legumes, various grasses, and grains (Zhang et al., 2007).
Williams also adds mulch and compost to his soil for extra enrichment.
Williams utilizes plant fragrances for pest management and to attract important
pollinators as well. Another important regime Williams uses on Lick Run Farm is the
three sisters method. The three sisters method utilizes intercropping of maize,
beans, and squash for efficient nutrient sequestration and uptake by the soil and the
plant, while also deterring pests. For instance, what nitrogen is taken up by the corn
the beans replenish back into the soil (Postma and Lynch, 2012).
Michael Beahm Farm is a 200-230 acre, monoculture farm in rural Hollins,
Virginia with 50-acres of cropland growing transgenic sweet Bt-corn. The Bt-corn
was not sprayed with any herbicides or pesticides. Michael Beahm Farm has been in
the Beahm family for several years now, and has always been operating as a larger-
scale monoculture operation.
Corn is a crucial agricultural commodity to the United States comprising
nearly 94 million acres of farmland in 2013. It is the most economically valuable
crop estimating a total production value of $67 billion (Barton and Clark, 2014).
Additionally, the United States is the number one producer and exporter of corn
comprising 36% of the global output. Unfortunately, natural events out of
humankind’s control are posing serious threats to the success of corn in the United
States. In 2012 alone, $10.8 billion was paid out to corn farmers due to losses from
extreme weather, drought, inefficient fertilization, and pests (Barton and Clark,
2014).
5. 5
Agricultural researchers have developed a solution to crop loss from pest
species in particular through genetic modification. Specifically, Bt-corn is corn that
has been genetically engineered to express DNA from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
This gram-positive aerobic soil bacterium expresses proteins known as Cry
proteins, which provides the bacteria with its insecticidal characteristics (Sanchis
and Bourguet, 2008). B. thuringiensis is unique in its release of crystalline inclusions
during its sporulation. These crystalline inclusions possess the Cry proteins that are
toxic to insect larvae. Specifically, the crystalline inclusions are dissolved into the
midgut of larval insects releasing Cry proteins. Naturally present stomach enzymes
in the larval midgut synthesize the Cry proteins where it is converted to smaller
polypeptides that are toxic. The toxins now present on the cell membrane of the
larval midgut, forms pores that cause the cells to lyse. Because of this, the larva will
stop feeding and eventually die (Hofte and Whiteley, 1989).
Many strains of B. thuringiensis have been identified and appear to have an
effect on different insects orders. For instance, Cry1Ab and Cry3Bb primarily target
the order Lepidoptera. Specifically, these strains of B. thuringiensis targets the
commonly found European corn borerand corn earworm (Dively and Rose, 2003).
However, toxicity effects have been observed within the species in the orders of
Dipteran and Coleopteran (Hofte and Whiteley, 1989). Despite this, the full toxic
effect of some strains of B. thuringiensis has not yet been identified (Hofte and
Whiteley, 1989).
Bt-corn has become widely adopted by farmers since its introduction nearly
20 years ago, due to its increased production yield and relatively cheap production
6. 6
costs (Hofte and Whiteley, 1989). However, with studies observing adverse effects,
concerns have been raised in the scientific community of Bt-corn’s non-target effects
on soil organisms. In particular, non-target effects on species in the order
Hymenoptera have been raised due to their significance in a healthy agricultural
setting. In fact, ants are classified as ecosystem engineers, which means they have a
significant impact on how a habitat is organized. Ants are considered ecosystem
engineers for several reasons with the major one being their capacity to physically
reshape their ecosystem through tunneling. Ants also have high affinity towards
competition and use antibiotic substances to keep invader numbers low and fight
other pest species (Benckiser, 2010). Furthermore, ants are excellent at nutrient
sequestration via their cycling of organic matter with high levels of nitrogen and
carbon, which are crucial for maintaining soil fertility. Lastly, ants are considered
fungal farmers by keeping undesirable fungi at low numbers, and cultivating fungi
that is important for soil fertility and increasing crop yield (Benckiser, 2010).
With the economic and environmental importance of ants in agricultural
ecosystems, I questioned whether differing farming methods have an effect on
species richness and individual abundance. Due to the habitat differences between
polyculture and monoculture farms, I hypothesized that a polyculture establishment
would have higher abundance and species richness than the latter: a farm utilizing
monoculture techniques.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
Study Sites
7. 7
Specimens were collected on the 3.6-acre polyculture Lick Run Farm in
Roanoke, Virginia (37.407229, -122.107162), and on the 50-acre monoculture
Michael Beahm Farm in Hollins, Virginia (37.407229, -122.107162). Lick Run Farm
was in an urban environment surrounded by housing developments, and was
serving as a local source of fresh produce for the community. There were two small
plots of cultivation at Lick Run Farm both with leafy vegetables, various peppers,
tomatoes, and sweet corn.
Two rows with approximately 15 corn stalks per row comprised the corn
transect at the organic Lick Run Farm. The first plot (“Fld 1”) was closer to the main
road, whereas the second plot (“Fld 3”) was placed farther away from the main road
(Figure 1). A small dirt pathway led to the second plot, which is where we collected
our specimens. A small field also surrounded this cultivation site (Figure 1). Michael
Beahm farm was in a rural environment with little property development around
cultivation sites (Figure 2). There were two large plots of sweet Bt-corn, which is
where we collected our specimens.
Trapping and Collection
Ants were collected using 50-milliliter screw-cap centrifuge pitfall traps.
Traps were installed on September 19, 2014 and left open for specimen collection
for 12 days. Traps were collected from both farms on October 1, 2014. Two liters of
brine solution was prepared using hot water, salt, vinegar, and regular liquid dish
detergent. A brine solution was substituted for the typical propylene glycol solution
because Lick Run Farm uses organic farming methods with no chemicals. Pitfall
traps were placed on each corner of the corn plot for a total of 8 traps. Pitfall traps
8. 8
were also placed directly in the center of the corn patch for a total of 7 traps in the
interior of the corn.
Five pitfall traps were placed randomly in vegetables in the garden plot.
Vegetables that were sampled included red and purple peppers, sweet tomatoes,
lettuce, and grapes. A field gradient was also established around the cultivated site
to sample the natural population of suburban ants. Traps were placed every 10
meters that extended to the corner of the cultivated site, then turned sharply left in
an “L” shape.
Ten traps were placed in two corn plots every 10 meters at Michael Beahm
Farm totaling 20 traps installed. Traps ran parallel to the corn. A field gradient was
also installed at Michael Beahm Farm in a weed patch running parallel to the
cultivated cornfields. Six traps were placed 10 meters apart in order to sample
natural population of ant specimens. By request of Michael Beahm, 4 pitfall traps
were also placed in a white greenhouse building randomly that housed mostly
legumes with some leafy vegetables in order to assess which species of ant had
recently become a greenhouse pest species to Michael Beahm.
Specimen Preservation and Identification
After collection, ants were preserved in alcohol and labeled by date and
location. Specimens were taken back to the lab to be sorted (ant from non-ant) and
pinned for identification. Species were identified using Antweb.org and
dichotomous keys (Fisher and Cover 2007; Holldobler and Wilson 1990; Ellison et
al., 2012). Species were also identified by comparison to vouchers previously
9. 9
confirmed by Emily Ogilvy and Dr. Valerie S. Banschbach, Department of Biology,
Saint Michaels College.
Statistical Analyses
Species richness, frequency (ants per trap), relative abundance, and species
diversity were calculated for both the organic farm and the farm with transgenic Bt-
corn. A rarefaction simulation analysis was performed to examine the difference in
species richness present in the overall data set for the organic versus transgenic
corn transects (EstimatesS, Colwell 2013). Rarefaction analysis was performed on
an individual basis. Shannon index (H’) was performed to examine the difference in
species diversity present for both farms. Finally, a t-test was calculated to determine
whether the number of individuals present between the monoculture versus
polyculture study sites were significant or not.
10. 10
Figure 1. Aerial photograph of Lick Run Farm. Specimen collection for both field
and corn data occurred in Fld 3.
11. 11
Figure 2. Aerial soil map of Michael Beahm Farm. Michael Beahm Farm was
located in rural Hollins, Virginia with little development surrounding it.
12. 12
RESULTS
In total, there were 2,214 ants collected on both the organic Lick Run Farm in
Roanoke, and Michael Beahm Farm with transgenic corn in Hollins (Table 1). For
Michael Beahm Farm, there were a total of 357 individuals, and 1,299 individuals
for Lick Run Farm. Of this total, 21 ants species from 13 genera were collected
(Table 2). An outlying colony of 1,015 individuals was collected from Lick Run Farm.
The average number of ants was higher for Lick Run Farm (Table 1; t = -2.66; df =
16; p-value = 0.017). The five most abundant species for the organic Lick Run Farm
were Monomorium emarginatum, Monomoroium viride, Myrmecina americana,
Prenolepis imparis, and Temnothorax ambiguus (Table 2). The most abundant
species for Michael Beahm Farm with transgenic Bt-corn were Lasius alienus, Lasius
umbratus, Pachycondyla chinensis, Prenolepis imparis, and Stenamma brevicorne
(Table 2).
The Shannon diversity index (H’) was higher on the organic Lick Run Farm
(H’ = 2.07) when compared to Michael Beahm Farm (H’ = 1.87) with transgenic Bt-
corn (Table 3). Rarefaction simulation analysis indicated that the organic Lick Run
Farm also had greater species richness than Michael Beahm Farm (Figure 3; Figure
4). Pitfall traps were also placed outside of cultivation to assess differences between
species richness and abundance in a field versus cultivated monoculture or
polyculture. The five most abundant species for the organic Lick Run Farm were
Monomorium viride, Pachycondyla chinensis, Prenolepis imparis, Stenamma
brevicorne, and Temnothorax ambiguus. The five most abundant species for Michael
Beahm Farm were Formica difficilis and Lasius alienus with the same relative
13. 13
abundance, Lasius umbratus, Monomorium emarginatum, Prenolepis imparis, and
Stenamma brevicorne (Table 4).
Relative abundance values were calculated for data collected from random
dispersal of pitfall traps in vegetables on the organic Lick Run Farm, and in a hoop
house on Michael Beahm Farm. Values indicate that the top five species in
vegetables on Lick Run Farm are Formica difficilis, Monomorium emarginatum,
Prenolepis imparis, Stenamma brevicorne, and Temnothorax ambiguus (Table 5). The
top five species on Michael Beahm Farm are Formica difficilis, Lasius alienus,
Prenolepis imparis, Stenamma brevicorne, and Temnothorax ambiguus (Table 5).
Table 1. Summary table of total number of ants and traps set with average
number of ants per trap. The organic Lick Run Farm had higher total number of
ants, and higher average number of ants per trap than Michael Beahm Farm with
transgenic Bt-corn.
Site # individuals # traps Mean # ants/trap
Lick Run Farm 1299 17 76
M. Beahm Farm 357 20 17
14. 14
Figure 3. Observed ant species richness in corn plots on Lick Run Farm and
Michael Beahm Farm on an individual basis. Observed richness of ants between
the two farms were not different from each other as indicated by the error bars.
Figure 4. Estimated ant species richness in corn plots on Lick Run Farm and
Michael Beahm Farm on an individual basis. Estimated richness of ants between
the two farms indicates Lick Run Farm has higher species richness than Michael
Beahm Farm.
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400
ObservedNumberofSpecies
Number of individuals
Lick Run Farm
Beahm Farm
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
0 100 200 300 400 500
EstimatedNumberofSpecies(Chao1)
Number of individuals
Lick Run Farm
Beahm Farm
15. 15
Table 2. Ant species relative abundance in the organic (Lick Run Farm) versus
transgenic (Michael Beahm Farm) corn transects. Highlighted cells refer to the
top five most abundant species for each transect.
Ant species Lick Run
Farm
Michael Beahm
Farm
Relative Abundance
Aphaenogaster rudis 0.001 0.015
Camponotus castaneaus 0.001 0.000
Formica difficilis 0.004 0.006
Lasius alienus 0.000 0.122
Lasius umbratus 0.014 0.099
Monomorium
emarginatum
0.055 0.012
Monomorium viride 0.021 0.009
Myrmecina americana 0.781 0.000
Myrmica incompleta 0.000 0.000
Myrmica latifrons 0.000 0.003
Pachycondyla chinensis 0.008 0.163
Pheidole dentate 0.001 0.000
Pheidole flavens 0.001 0.006
Pheidole fulva 0.002 0.038
Pheidole pilifera 0.002 0.012
Prenolepis imparis 0.047 0.353
Solenopsis molesta 0.001 0.003
Stenamma brevicorne 0.013 0.085
Stenamma impar 0.010 0.038
Tapinoma sessile 0.000 0.003
Temnothorax ambiguus 0.038 0.000
Table 3. Shannon diversity index (H’) in the corn plots for organic (Lick Run
Farm) versus transgenic (Michael Beahm Farm). Shannnon diversity index is
higher for the organic Lick Run Farm.
Lick Run Farm Michael Beahm Farm
Shannon index 2.07 1.87
16. 16
Table 4. Ant species relative abundance in field transects at the polyculture
Lick Run Farm versus the Michael Beahm Farm with monoculture farming
methods. Highlighted cells refer to the top five most abundant species for each site.
Ant species
Lick Run
Farm
Michael
Beahm Farm
Relative Abundance
Aphaenogaster rudis 0.009 0.053
Formica difficilis 0.074 0.066
Lasius alienus 0.009 0.066
Lasius umbratus 0.009 0.145
Monomorium emarginatum 0.009 0.211
Monomorium viride 0.093 0.000
Myrmica incompleta 0.000 0.026
Myrmica latifrons 0.000 0.013
Myrmica punctiventris 0.000 0.013
Pachycondyla chinensis 0.148 0.000
Pheidole flavens 0.000 0.026
Pheidole pilifera 0.009 0.000
Prenolepis imparis 0.296 0.197
Stenamma brevicorne 0.130 0.026
Stenamma impar 0.000 0.158
Temnothorax ambiguus 0.213 0.000
Table 5. Relative abundance of species in pitfall traps placed in vegetables at
Lick Run Farm and a greenhouse at Michael Beahm Farm. Highlighted cells refer
to the top five most abundant ant species for each farm.
Ant species Lick Run
Veggie
Beahm Hoop
House
Relative Abundance
Aphaenogaster rudis 0.006 0.017
Camponotus castaneus 0.006 0.000
Formica difficilis 0.072 0.157
Lasius alienus 0.011 0.281
Lasius umbratus 0.022 0.058
Monomorium
emarginatum
0.567 0.000
Monomorium viride 0.000 0.008
Pachycondyla chinensis 0.011 0.008
Pheidole flavens 0.044 0.000
Prenolepis imparis 0.067 0.091
Solenopsis molesta 0.006 0.025
Stenamma brevicorne 0.117 0.248
Temnothorax ambiguus 0.072 0.107
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DISCUSSION
This study suggests that diversity and species richness is higher for the
organic, polyculture Lick Run Farm, and there is a statistically significant difference
in abundance of ants in corn plots between Lick Run Farm and Michael Beahm Farm.
On a broader ecological level, this significant difference could be attributed to the
different farming methods of Lick Run Farm and Michael Beahm Farm rather than
the presence of Bt-corn alone. Lick Run farm is an organic polyculture focused
agricultural practice. On the other hand, Michael Beahm Farms’ focus is productivity
via monoculture and utilization of transgenic Bt-corn to efficiently fight pests. A
study conducted in 2013 found statistically significant diversity and richness
differences between a farm utilizing polyculture and a farm utilizing monoculture
(Moreira and Mooney, 2013). They hypothesized this difference could be attributed
to the higher genetic diversity present in polyculture, which attracts aphids and
therefore more resources for ants to utilize (Moreira and Mooney, 2013).
The diversity and richness differences between the two farms could also be
attributed to the dominance of a single invasive ant called the Asian Needle Ant
(Pachycondyla chinensis), which was the second most abundant species at the
Michael Beahm Farm, but was rare at the organic Lick Run Farm (Table 2). It would
be expected to see an abundance of this ant on the organic Lick Run Farm because
an urban environment surrounds it. This is expected because invasive species are
often passengers of disturbance; taking advantage of disturbance to establish as
stated in the driver-passenger hypothesis (MacDougall and Turkington, 2005).
Again, this simple invasive species establishment could be attributed to the
18. 18
polyculture versus monoculture. Agricultural researchers are finding that increasing
plant diversity, like polyculture typically does, enhances habitat and resources for
invertebrates, thus creating a stronger ecosystem with a greater variety of
ecological niches making it harder for invasive species to establish (Landis et al.,
2005). Therefore, it is easier for an invasive species like the Asian Needle Ant to
establish because of the low plant diversity and ecological disturbance that are
propagated by monocultures (Landis et al., 2005).
A quick and simple explanation for the abundance and diversity discrepancy
between the two farms would be the presence of transgenic Bt-corn on Michael
Beahm Farm. However, there have been no significant findings that Bt-corn has any
non-target negative affects on ant species (Dively and Rose, 2003). Additionally, a
study comparing the affects of Bt-corn plots without insecticide and non-Bt plots
with insecticide was conducted in 2005. Bt-corn reduces the use of insecticides by
75-100%, and their study concluded that ant and carabid species were the least
affected by insecticide spraying; however, predator species such as spiders and
beetles were decreased by upwards of 75% (Dively and Rose, 2003). This is
concerning ecologically because predator species lower prevalence of insect pests
like the European corn borer and corn earworm in a healthy system, which are the
target species of Bt-corn (Altieri, 1999). Therefore, Bt-corn utilization could have an
indirect positive effect on ants and other predator species because insecticides are
no longer necessary.
For field samples there was some overlap between species found in corn
cultivation and those found in the field. Species that were found in the field but not
19. 19
in the corn for Lick Run Farm were Pachycondyla chinensis, Stenamma brevicorne,
and Monomorium viride. Species that were found in the field but not in the corn for
Michael Beahm Farm were Formica difficilis, Monomorium emarginatum, and
Stenamma impar. It is no surprise to have found the Asian Needle Ant (Pachycondyla
chinensis) on Lick Run Farm since it is an invasive ant that thrives on the
disturbance that an urban environment provides (MacDougall and Turkington,
2005). Due to a strong ecosystem perpetuated by polyculture, the invasive Asian
Needle Ant has likely had difficulty establishing in the cultivated site at Lick Run
Farm (Landis et al., 2005). In addition, the presence of the Asian Needle Ant could be
a driver of species that are present or not. For instance Stenamma brevicorne and
Monomorium viride are potentially good competitors with the Asian Needle Ant
allowing them to sustain their population more than those found in the corn, but not
in the field (Dunn and Guenard, 2010).
This could also be the case for Michael Beahm Farm. Monoculture has
allowed sites of corn cultivation to be more favorable for the invasive Asian Needle
Ant; therefore, ants less tolerant migrate away from the invasive to increase
resources and survival (Dunn and Guenard, 2010). There could also be an
environmental factor that is a contributor to some species being more prevalent in a
natural field versus a cultivated monoculture or polyculture site. For instance, some
species prefer certain types of soil, ground cover, and detritus that may be present
in the field that is not present in the cornfields (Wesson and Wesson, 1940).
In vegetable data for Lick Run Farm and hoop house data for Michael Beahm
Farm, there was some overlap between species that were most abundant.
20. 20
Interestingly, However, ant species that were not found to be abundant in the corn
plots were found to be abundant in the hoop house and vegetable plots. These
species include Formica difficilis and Stenamma brevicorne for Lick Run Farm
vegetable plots, and Formica difficilis and Temnothorax ambiguus for Michael Beahm
Farm hoop house (Table 3). On Michael Beahm Farm, this could be attributed to the
decline in Pachycondyla chinensis abundance and the possible intolerance of
Formica difficilis and Temnothorax ambiguus to the Asian Needle Ant (Dunn and
Guenard, 2010). The dominance of Temnothorax ambiguus and Formica difficilis in
vegetable plots rather than corn plots at Lick Run Farm could be attributed to the
type of soil the vegetables were growing in. For instance, Formica difficilis prefer dry
soil with vegetable debris, and Stenamma brevicorne prefer moist soil (Wesson and
Wesson, 1940). Therefore, they would be more abundant in vegetables with the
type of soil preferred by the organism.
In conclusion, my hypothesis was accepted with the finding of significant
statistical differences in the number of individuals between the polyculture Lick Run
Farm and monoculture Michael Beahm Farm (t = -2.66; df = 16; p-value = 0.017).
This could be attributed to the differing farming methods used by the farmers.
Overall, transgenic Bacillus thuringiensus (Bt) corn does not appear to have adverse
affects on non-target organisms in the Hymenoptera family based on literature
(Dively and Rose, 2003). The foundation has been established for further research
on Lick Run Farm and Michael Beahm Farm with the identification of species that
are present. Therefore, more research can increase knowledge in a time of
21. 21
agricultural shifting in the United States of the impacts of certain agricultural
practices on important bioindicator species like ants.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Roanoke College Environmental Studies Program including Dr. Valerie S.
Banschbach and Dr. Katherine P. O’Neill, Lick Run Farm in Roanoke, Virginia, and
Michael Beahm Farm in Hollins, Virginia. Dr. Matthew Petersen in the Roanoke
College Biology Department. Dr. Valerie S. Banschbach and the Roanoke College
Environmental Studies Program provided supplies and equipment necessary for
this project.
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