Question

At the heart of agroecology is the idea that agroecosystems should mimic the biodiversity levels and functioning of natural ecosystems. Such agricultural mimics, like their natural models, can be productive, pest-resistant, nutrient conserving, and resilient to shocks and stresses. In ecosystems there is no 'waste, nutrients are recycled indefinitely. Agroecology aims at closing nutrient loops, i.e., returning all nutrients that come out of the soil back to the soil such as through application of farmyard manure. It also harnesses natural processes to control pests and build soil fertility i.e., through intercropping. Agroecological practices include integrating trees with
livestock and crops.

Consider the following:

1. Cover crops
2. Fertigation
3. Hydroponics
4. Mixed farming
5. Polyculture
6. Vertical farming

Which of the above farming practices can be compatible with agroecology, as implied by the passage?

(a) 1, 4 and 5 only

(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

(c) 1, 2, 3 and 6 only

(d) 4 and 6 only

Answer 1

Correct option is (a) 1, 4 and 5 only

Cover crops: A cover crop is a plant that is used primarily to slow erosion, improve soil health, enhance water availability, smother weeds, help control pests and diseases...

Fertigation: Fertigation is a method of fertilizer application in which fertilizer is incorporated within the irrigation water by the drip system.

Hydroponics: the growing of plants in nutrient solutions with or without an inert medium (such as soil) to provide mechanical support.

Mixed Farming: Mixed farming is a type of farming which involves both the growing of crops and the raising of livestock

Polyculture: Benefits of Polyculture: Increases biodiversity. Enhances soil health. Eliminates fossil-fuel fertilizers and pesticides. Promotes clean water run off.

Vertical Farming: Vertical farming is one such solution that's been implemented around the world. By Vertical Farming, food crops can be cultivated easily in urban areas by planting in vertically stacked layers in order to save space and use minimal energy and water for irrigation.

From the above you can easily see why the correct answer is option (a).