Pests and Pesticides
What is the term for chemicals used to kill pests that harm crops?
Pesticides
What is crop rotation, and how does it reduce pests?
Changing crops planted in a field each season to disrupt pest life cycles.
What are the three main components of soil?
Sand, silt, and clay.
Organic farming is farming without _____ or _______
Farming without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
What is clearcutting?
The most aggressive, most common form of silviculture - designating areas of forest to be completely harvested
Why are overused pesticides harmful to ecosystems?
They can harm beneficial insects, birds, and water sources.
What are trap crops?
Plants grown to attract pests away from the main crop.
What is soil erosion, and why is it harmful?
The wearing away of soil by wind or water; it reduces soil fertility.
What is a GMO and is it bad?
A plant, animal, or microorganism whose DNA has been altered via genetic engineering - not bad!
What is the name of the largest intact forest on Earth?
The Boreal Forest
Which insecticide has been linked to cancer, reproductive problems and bioaccumulation?
DDT
Explain what a control organism is
An introduction of natural enemies of the pest to reduce their population
What is organic fertilizer, and how does it improve soil?
Cow, sheep, or chicken manure that is sprayed onto the soil to add nutrients.
What are cover crops, and why are they used?
Crops planted to protect soil between growing seasons.
What is silviculture?
The science of controlling establishment, growth, health, and diversity in forests to meet the needs of animals and humans
What are two reasons children are more susceptible to harm from biocides?
Lower BMI, more activity to expose them, continuing development
What is companion planting?
Growing certain plants together to deter pests or improve growth.
What is soil pH, and why is it important for crops?
A measure of soil acidity or alkalinity; it affects nutrient availability for plants.
Which hormone is given to female cows to increase milk production?
Prolactin
What causes heat islands to form in urban areas?
They are covered with concrete and asphalt which absorbs heat
Neonicotinoids
What are the 3 sister's plants?
Corn, beans, and squash
Name 3 soil macronutrients
Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium
Prion based neurodegenerative
What are the four layers of the forest?
Emergent, canopy, understory, forest floor