Agriculture and Ecosystem Flashcards
Biodiversity
The variety of organisms living in an ecosystem. Domestic biodiversity refers to the diversity among organisms cultivated for human use, in contrast to wild biodiversity.
Compost
A dark, crumbly, soil-like material made from decomposed (or decomposing) organic matter, such as animal manure, food waste, leaves and grass clippings. Compost is applied to soil as a nutrient-rich fertilizer for plants.2 See composting.
Composting
A form of waste treatment that uses fungi, bacteria and other microorganisms to decompose organic matter, such as animal manure and food waste. Composting can reduce or eliminate pathogens, harmful chemicals, plant diseases, odors and air pollution. The end product is a nutrient-rich fertilizer.2 See compost.
Dust Bowl
A period of severe dust storms that caused massive crop failures, hunger, and poverty across the Midwestern United States during the 1930s. A rapid expansion of mechanized agriculture pulverized the top layer of soil and stripped the grasses that held it in place, leaving it dry and exposed to being blown away by wind.5 See soil erosion and plow.
Food Security
Consistent and dependable access to adequate, safe and nutritious food for an active and healthy life.1 For a region to be food secure, it must have an adequate, stable supply of food even during drought and other difficult conditions; and its people must be able to locate and afford food, even in the presence of an abundant supply.10
Irrigation
Human-made means of delivering freshwater to agricultural fields. Irrigation techniques include the use of flooding, canals, sprinklers and drip tape (hose with small holes that release water slowly over time).
Organic matter
Anything that was once part of a living organism, such as decaying leaves and animal waste. Organic matter is among the most important ingredients of fertile soil. See manure and compost.
Peak Oil
The point at which global oil production begins to decline.17
Soil Food web
The interactions between living organisms and nonliving organic matter in the soil. In the soil food web, every organism becomes food for another. The soil food web offers many services that promote an abundant food supply and human health, such as storing nutrients and breaking down certain pollutants.22 See ecosystem.
waste treatment
Processes that make waste less of a threat to health and the environment. Human waste, including wastewater from sinks and toilets, is typically treated in order to reduce levels of pathogens, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances.
