Photo AI
Give scientific explanations for any four of the following: (a) The ability of a young farm animal to digest bulky foods after weaning - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 9 - 2014
Question 9
Give scientific explanations for any four of the following: (a) The ability of a young farm animal to digest bulky foods after weaning. (b) Sub-soiling of a podzol... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Give scientific explanations for any four of the following: (a) The ability of a young farm animal to digest bulky foods after weaning - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 9 - 2014
Step 1
The ability of a young farm animal to digest bulky foods after weaning.
Answer
Young farm animals, particularly ruminants, develop their rumen as they transition from liquid to solid feed. Before weaning, the rumen lacks bacterial activity necessary for digesting cellulose in bulky feed. After weaning, exposure to fibrous feeds (like hay or straw) stimulates microbial growth, enhancing the ruminant function. This process takes approximately 2-3 weeks, during which animals learn to utilize concentrates and water effectively, leading to proper rumen development.
Step 2
Sub-soiling of a podzol soil.
Answer
Sub-soiling involves breaking the compacted layers in podzol soils to improve drainage and aeration. This action helps recover nutrients and enhances root penetration. By loosening the soil, it promotes better water infiltration and prevents waterlogging, which can damage crops. Improved soil structure contributes to higher yields and healthier plant growth.
Step 3
The use of shelter belts on farms.
Answer
Shelter belts are rows of trees or shrubs established to reduce wind speed across farmland. They improve crop growth by minimizing wind damage, which can hinder plant development and reduce yields. Strong winds can also cause soil erosion and water loss. Shelter belts provide a habitat for biodiversity, protecting farm animals and improving feed conversion ratios (FCR) in livestock by creating a more favorable microclimate.
Step 4
The flushing of lowland ewes prior to mating.
Answer
Flushing refers to improving the condition of lowland ewes before mating to enhance reproductive success. Increasing dietary energy leads to better ovulation rates, resulting in more twins or fewer barren ewes. This practice improves conception rates and leads to healthier lambing outcomes, thereby maximizing productivity in sheep farming.
Step 5
The presence of a red colour in the urine of a bought-in animal after six weeks grazing on the farm.
Answer
The red colouration in urine can indicate the presence of red water fever, caused by the Babesia parasite transmitted by ticks. This condition leads to the bursting of red blood cells and the release of hemoglobin into the urine. The incubation period for the animal is typically 10-20 days after being infected on the farm. Monitoring for this condition is crucial for animal health management.