(a) Explain the following terms as used in pasture and range management. (i) fodder; (ii) paddocking: (iii) reseeding; (iv) stocking rate; (v) natural pastu...

Answer Details

(a)

1. (i) Fodder refers to food for livestock, including both forage plants (e.g. grasses, clovers, alfalfa) and supplementary feed (e.g. grain, hay).
2. (ii) Paddocking refers to the practice of dividing a pasture into smaller areas or sections, often with the use of fences, to control the movement and grazing patterns of livestock. This allows for better distribution of forage and can help prevent overgrazing in certain areas.
3. (iii) Reseeding refers to the process of planting new seed in a pasture to replenish or improve the existing forage. This can be done to replace worn out or depleted areas, to add new species, or to improve the quality and productivity of the pasture.
4. (iv) Stocking rate refers to the number of livestock per unit of land, typically expressed as animals per hectare or acre. It is an important factor in pasture and range management, as it affects the amount of forage available and the impact of grazing on the land.
5. (v) Natural pasture refers to land that is used for grazing and has not been significantly altered by human activities such as cultivation or fertilization. Natural pastures may include native vegetation and may support a variety of wildlife species.

(b) Five factors that could affect the establishment of pasture in West Africa are:

1. Soil fertility: Poor soil quality can limit the growth and productivity of pasture plants.
2. Climate: Extreme temperatures, frequent drought, or heavy rainfall can all impact the establishment and survival of pasture plants.
3. Pest and disease pressure: Certain pests and diseases can damage or kill pasture plants, reducing their productivity and quality.
4. Availability of water: Adequate water is essential for the growth and survival of pasture plants and may be limited in certain regions of West Africa.
5. Competition from weeds: Invasive weeds can outcompete pasture plants for resources such as light, water, and nutrients, reducing the productivity of the pasture.

(c) Five ways in which weeds are of economic importance in livestock production are:

1. Forage: Some weeds can provide a source of food for livestock, especially in times of drought or when other forage is scarce.
2. Pest control: Certain weed species can act as a trap crop, attracting pests away from crops or pasture plants, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
3. Soil improvement: Weeds can help to improve soil structure and fertility through their root systems, which can help to increase the productivity of pastures.
4. Biodiversity: Weeds can provide habitat and food for beneficial insects and other wildlife, which can help to maintain a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
5. Medicinal uses: Some weed species have medicinal properties and can be used to treat a variety of livestock diseases, reducing the need for expensive veterinary treatments.