Photo AI
Mixed grazing of cattle and sheep is used on some farms - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 60 - 2007
Question 60
Mixed grazing of cattle and sheep is used on some farms. Give three benefits of using mixed grazing as a system. In farm enterprises, animals are culled. (i) What i... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Mixed grazing of cattle and sheep is used on some farms - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 60 - 2007
Step 1
Give three benefits of using mixed grazing as a system.
Answer
- Better Land Utilization: Mixed grazing allows for better use of pasture as cattle and sheep graze on different types of forage. This ensures that the available grass is utilized efficiently, reducing overgrazing.
- Parasite Control: By grazing different species together, the life cycles of parasites can be disrupted, as specific parasites prefer certain hosts. This can lead to healthier livestock.
- Increased Yields: Mixed grazing can lead to improved meat and wool production rates, as both cattle and sheep benefit from diverse grazing habits, leading to enhanced overall farm productivity.
Step 2
Step 3
Give three reasons that animals are culled.
Answer
- Poor Health: Animals that are diseased or unfit for production are culled to prevent the spread of illness within the herd.
- Low Productivity: Animals that do not meet the expected production standards for milk, meat, or wool are culled to improve efficiency on the farm.
- Aging Animals: Older animals that have diminished reproductive capabilities or lower yields may be culled to make space for younger, more productive livestock.
Step 4
List three management techniques used in farming to ensure high milk yield.
Answer
- Genetic Selection: Breeding programs focused on selecting high-yielding dairy breeds and individuals can enhance milk production.
- Proper Nutrition: Ensuring that dairy cows receive a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients helps optimize milk production and reproductive performance.
- Effective Milking Practices: Regular and efficient milking routines, including hygiene and proper equipment maintenance, can significantly improve milk yield and quality.
Step 6
Outline a laboratory method to show the presence of one named constituent in milk.
Answer
To test for the presence of lactose in milk, the following method can be used:
- Sample Preparation: Take a small sample of the milk in a test tube.
- Add Benedict's Solution: Add an equal volume of Benedict’s reagent to the milk sample.
- Heat the Mixture: Gently heat the test tube in a water bath for about 5 minutes.
- Observation: A color change from blue to green, yellow, or brick red indicates the presence of reducing sugars, confirming that lactose is present in the milk.