Question

2(a) Explain each of the following terms: (i) agricultural ecology; (i) ecosystem.
(b) Mention: (i) two biotic components of a farm ecosystem; (ii) three abiotic components of a farm ecosystem.
(c) State five precautions that should be taken during storage of bags of maize in a store.
(d) Give four examples of bedding plants.

Accepted Answer

(a)(i) Agricultural ecology is the study of crop plants and farm animals in relation to their environment. Agricultural ecology is the interaction of crop plants and farm animal with the biotic and abiotic environment.
(ii) Ecosystem refers to the interaction of a community of biotic components (plants and animals) with their abiotic components (non-living things).

(b)(i) Biotic components of a farm ecosystem: Crops; Protozoa; Microorganism/Virus/Bacteria; Producers/autotrophs; Farm animals; Consumers/heterotrophs; Soil living organisms/Earthworms.
(ii) Abiotic components of a farm ecosystem: Temperature; Wind/air/storm; Relative humidity; Sunlight; Rainfall/precipitation; Dust; Rock Minerals; Wild fire; Soil; Water.

(c) Precautions for storage of bags of maize in a store: Storehouse should be rain proof; Ensure adequate ventilation in storehouse; Windows should be netted against insects; A simple metal roof should be constructed; Floors and walls should be cemented with no cracks for insects/rats to hide.

(d) Examples of bedding plants: Zinnia; Morning glory; Cana lily; Lantana IV; Gloriosa; Amarantus; Crotolaria; Water lettuce; Marigold and so on (any four).

WAEC Agricultural Science 2023 Theory — Question 2

Sign up free to unlock