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Give scientific explanations for any four of the following: (a) The increasing popularity of Holstein-Jersey cross cows in dairying - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 9 - 2013
Question 9
Give scientific explanations for any four of the following: (a) The increasing popularity of Holstein-Jersey cross cows in dairying. (b) The predominance of kale o... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Give scientific explanations for any four of the following: (a) The increasing popularity of Holstein-Jersey cross cows in dairying - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 9 - 2013
Step 1
The increasing popularity of Holstein-Jersey cross cows in dairying.
Answer
The increasing popularity of Holstein-Jersey cross cows can be attributed to several factors. These crosses tend to produce milk that is lower in somatic cell counts, leading to healthier animals and better milk quality. They often exhibit higher fertility rates, making them easier to manage for breeding. Holstein-Jersey crosses also tend to be hardier and more adaptable to various farming conditions, ensuring that they can thrive in different environments. Moreover, this hybrid vigor often helps in reducing issues like calving difficulties, making them a preferred choice for dairy farmers.
Step 2
The predominance of kale over other forms of winter forage crops in recent years.
Answer
Kale has become a favored choice for winter forage crops due to its high protein content (around 68%) and excellent digestibility. It yields better than other crops, even under low temperatures, and its high dry matter content means that it can support livestock effectively during the winter months. Additionally, kale is known for its ability to regrow quickly after grazing, allowing for extended grazing periods. This makes it a sustainable choice for farmers looking to maintain feed quality and quantity during the harder winter months.
Step 3
The micropropagation of new potato varieties.
Answer
Micropropagation is a technique that allows for the rapid multiplication of new potato varieties using tissue culture methods. This process involves taking small pieces of tubers and placing them in a nutrient-rich medium, resulting in the production of numerous plants within a short time. The technique can produce disease-free plants and can significantly reduce the time taken to establish new varieties in the market. As a result, it addresses the challenges posed by traditional propagation methods, which can be slow and susceptible to disease.
Step 4
The agitation of slurry before spreading.
Answer
Agitating slurry before spreading is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it breaks down any crust that may have formed on the surface, ensuring an even consistency. This helps in the effective application of nutrients across the field. Additionally, agitation liquefies the slurry, making it easier to handle and spread uniformly. It also ensures that gases and odors are released, which can reduce environmental impact. Properly agitated slurry contributes to a more efficient fertilization process, helping to optimize soil health.
Step 5
Why pigs in some poorly-managed units have overfat carcasses.
Answer
Overfat carcasses in pigs from poorly-managed units can be attributed to several factors, primarily related to diet and management practices. Often, these pigs do not receive a balanced diet, lacking essential ingredients and leading to poor feed conversion efficiency (FCE). A higher intake of carbohydrates without adequate protein can contribute to excessive fat deposition. Furthermore, inadequate management practices, such as failure to control feeding levels or monitor pig growth, can result in pigs being overfed or fed inconsistent rations, leading to an increase in body fat. Additionally, poor breed selection for lean meat production can exacerbate the issue.