JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2019

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Land-use practices can harm soil. The way people use land can affect the levels of nutrients and pollution in soil. Any activity that exposes soil to wind and rain can lead to soil loss. Farming, construction and development, and mining are among the main activities that impact soil resources. Flooding, over grazing and bush burning all have a harmful effect on the soil. Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of dissimilar or different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons.

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Maize grows best on loamy soil. Loamy soil is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, and is considered one of the best soil types for growing crops like maize. This is because loamy soil has a balanced mix of particles that allows it to hold water and nutrients well while also providing good drainage. The balance of sand, silt, and clay in loamy soil allows for good aeration, which is important for healthy root growth in maize plants. Sandy soil, on the other hand, has larger particles that do not hold water or nutrients well and can lead to poor crop growth. Sandy-clay soil and silty-clay soil have higher clay content, which can lead to poor drainage and waterlogging in wet conditions, making them less suitable for growing maize. In summary, maize grows best on loamy soil, which has a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay that provides good drainage, aeration, and nutrient holding capacity for healthy crop growth.

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Phalaris minor is a species of grass native to North Africa, Europe, and South Asia. The bunchgrass is widely naturalised elsewhere. Common names include little seed canary grass, small-seeded canary grass, small canary grass, lesser-canary grass, guli danda (Hindi), and sittee booti (Urdu). Phalaris minor is a crop associated with wheat. Choice A is correct.

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The head of a tapeworm is known as the "scolex". The scolex is the attachment organ of the tapeworm that enables it to attach to the host's intestinal wall. It is a small, flattened structure that contains suckers and hooks, which the tapeworm uses to hold onto the intestine. The rostellum is a structure found on some tapeworms that helps them attach to the host's intestinal wall, but it is not the same as the scolex. Therefore, the correct answer is "scolex" when referring to the head of a tapeworm.

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The majority of the world's yam production takes place in Africa, and the rest of it in Asia. The optimum temperature for storing yam tuber under cold storage is 280K (7°C). Therefore, 7°C is correct.

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Crops grown primarily for feeding animals are known as forage. Forage crops are grown specifically to be used as animal feed, either by grazing animals directly on the pasture or by harvesting the forage and feeding it to animals as silage or hay. Forage crops can include grasses, legumes, and other plants that are high in fiber and provide the necessary nutrients for animal growth and development. These crops can be grown for a variety of animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. Vegetables, cereals, and shrubs, on the other hand, are not primarily grown for feeding animals. Vegetables are grown for human consumption, while cereals can be grown for both human consumption and animal feed. Shrubs, although they can be used as animal feed in some cases, are typically not grown specifically for this purpose. Therefore, forage is the term used to describe crops that are grown primarily for feeding animals.

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Out of the given options, none of them directly requires Silicon (Si) for their growth. However, some plants can benefit from having Silicon available in their environment, and may grow better and healthier as a result. Silicon is not an essential nutrient for plants, meaning that they can grow without it. However, some research suggests that Silicon can improve plant growth, especially in harsh environmental conditions like drought, high salinity, and pests or diseases. Of the plants listed, Rice is one of the crops that has been shown to benefit significantly from Silicon supplementation. This is because Rice is a heavy user of Silicon, which it takes up and accumulates in its tissues, contributing to the structural stability of the plant and enhancing its resistance to pests and diseases. In summary, while none of the given plants require Silicon for their growth, Rice is one of the crops that can benefit from it. However, it's important to note that Silicon is not a magic bullet for plant growth and should be used in conjunction with other best practices for plant health and productivity.

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The causative organism of maize rust is a fungus. Maize rust is a fungal disease that affects maize plants and is caused by the fungus Puccinia polysora. The fungus infects the leaves of the maize plant, causing yellow to brownish-orange rust-like pustules or spots on the leaves. Maize rust can have a significant impact on crop yield and quality, and it is important for farmers to take steps to prevent and control the disease. This can include the use of disease-resistant maize varieties, crop rotation, proper sanitation practices, and timely application of fungicides when necessary. So, the correct answer is fungus.

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The option that is not usually related to an increase in farm produce is "improved sales of crop and livestock." Improved sales refer to better marketing and selling strategies, which can result in higher profits, but it does not directly increase the quantity of farm produce. On the other hand, the use of improved crop varieties, increased use of manure and fertilizer, and use of better farm equipment and tools are all factors that can contribute to an increase in farm produce. Improved crop varieties have traits that are better adapted to the local growing conditions, such as resistance to pests and diseases, or tolerance to drought or floods. Increased use of manure and fertilizer helps to improve soil fertility and nutrient levels, which can increase the yield and quality of crops. Better farm equipment and tools can make the farming process more efficient, allowing farmers to cultivate larger areas in less time and with less labor. Therefore, to summarize, the option that is not usually improved by an increase in farm produce is "Improved sales of crop and livestock", as it refers to better marketing strategies and does not directly increase the quantity of farm produce.

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The target groups of an agricultural Extension agent are typically individuals or groups who are involved in agriculture or rural development. These can include farmers, rural youth, women's groups, agribusinesses, cooperatives, and others who are engaged in agricultural activities. Of the options given, the one that is not a target group of an agricultural Extension agent is political parties. Political parties are not directly involved in agricultural activities or rural development, and therefore would not typically be a target group for agricultural Extension services. Extension agents are typically tasked with providing education, training, and other forms of support to help farmers and rural communities improve their productivity, sustainability, and economic well-being. They may work with individual farmers or groups, providing information and guidance on topics such as crop and livestock management, pest and disease control, soil fertility, marketing, and other issues that can affect agricultural productivity and profitability. So, the correct answer is political parties.

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Turkeys incubate for 27 - 28 days at 100.5 degrees. There are two methods of incubation. In the case of natural incubation with broody hens, for instance, naturally turkeys are good brooders and the broody hen can hatch 10-15 numbers of eggs. 27 days is the incubation period of turkey while 21 days is for chicken.

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Irrigation is not a factor to consider when planning a farmstead because it is not a requirement for a farmstead. A farmstead refers to a farm and the buildings and other structures on the farm, such as a house, barn, and outbuildings. Accessibility, topography, and soil type are all important factors to consider when planning a farmstead because they can impact the type of crops or livestock that can be raised on the farm, as well as the design and placement of buildings and other structures. Accessibility refers to the ease of getting to and from the farm, which can impact the transportation of goods and people. Topography refers to the natural features of the land, such as hills and valleys, which can impact the placement of buildings and the type of crops that can be grown. Soil type refers to the type of soil on the farm, which can impact the type of crops that can be grown and the fertility of the soil.

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A good silage should be free of moulds. Silage is made by fermenting green fodder in a silo or pit to preserve it as animal feed. Moulds can grow on the silage if the conditions are not right, such as when there is too much moisture or oxygen in the silo. This can lead to a decrease in the quality of the silage, as well as potential health problems for the animals consuming it. Mouldy silage can contain mycotoxins, which are toxic substances produced by certain types of moulds. When consumed by animals, mycotoxins can cause a range of health problems, including reduced milk production, poor weight gain, and even death in severe cases. Therefore, it is important to ensure that silage is made under the right conditions, such as with the correct moisture content and sufficient compaction to exclude oxygen. This will help to prevent the growth of moulds and ensure that the silage is of good quality for animal consumption.

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Newcastle disease is a viral disease that primarily affects poultry birds such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese. This disease can cause severe respiratory, nervous and digestive symptoms in infected birds and can lead to high mortality rates in flocks. In severe cases, Newcastle disease can also spread to other birds in the area and cause outbreaks. It is important to maintain good biosecurity measures and to seek veterinary advice if any signs of the disease are suspected in a flock.

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Rural farmers can obtain loans from various sources, but the most common ones are government agencies, merchant banks, and money lenders. Government agencies, such as agricultural development banks, offer loans to farmers at subsidized interest rates to encourage agricultural production and improve food security. These loans are often long-term and have flexible repayment terms. Merchant banks, on the other hand, offer loans to farmers based on their creditworthiness and ability to repay. These loans typically have higher interest rates than government loans, but they may offer more flexibility in terms of loan amount and repayment terms. Money lenders are private individuals or organizations that offer loans to farmers, often at very high interest rates. Farmers who are unable to obtain loans from government agencies or merchant banks may turn to money lenders as a last resort. However, borrowing from money lenders can be risky as the high interest rates and fees can make it difficult for farmers to repay the loan, leading to a cycle of debt and financial insecurity. Overall, it is important for farmers to carefully consider their options and choose the source of loans that best suits their needs and financial situation.

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Iodine is essential for the production of thyrozine, which is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. Thyrozine helps regulate the metabolism of animals and other organisms, which is the process by which they use energy from food to carry out their daily activities. Iodine is important because it is a key component of thyrozine. Without enough iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyrozine, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including a slow metabolism and weight gain. In conclusion, iodine is an essential nutrient for animals, and it is important for the production of the hormone thyrozine, which helps regulate metabolism.

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The wear and tear of farm structures over time is described as depreciation. Depreciation refers to the decrease in value of an asset over time due to age, usage, or obsolescence. Farm structures such as barns, sheds, and fences are subject to wear and tear due to exposure to weather, use, and other factors. As they age, their value decreases, and this decrease is referred to as depreciation. Depreciation is an important concept in accounting and financial management as it affects the value of assets and can impact a farm's financial performance.

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The factor of production whose reward is profit is entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship involves the ability to identify business opportunities, take risks, and organize resources (such as land, labor, and capital) in order to create and run a successful business. Entrepreneurs are typically the ones who invest their own time, money, and effort into starting and managing a business. In return for taking on the risks and uncertainties associated with starting and running a business, entrepreneurs are rewarded with profits. Profit is the return on investment that entrepreneurs receive for successfully creating and managing a business that provides goods or services that are valued by consumers. So, to sum up, the factor of production whose reward is profit is entrepreneurship, as it is the driving force behind the creation and success of businesses that generate profits.

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Sources of credit include:
- Licensed banks
- Deposit-taking companies
- Money lenders
- Government agencies
The informal sources of credit to smallholder farmers as identified in the study area were family or friends, money lenders, produce buyers and farmers' cooperatives, while the formal sources of credit were Nigerian agricultural cooperative and rural development bank, microfinance banks and commercial banks.
Mortgage banks are banks that specializes in originating and / or servicing mortgage loans. A mortgage is a loan in which property or real estate is used as collateral. The borrower enters into an agreement with the lender (usually a bank) wherein the borrower receives cash upfront then makes payments over a set time span until he pays back the lender in full.

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The degree of responsiveness of demand to a change in the price of goods or produce is referred to as price elasticity of demand. Price elasticity of demand is a measure of how much the quantity of a good or product demanded will change in response to a change in its price. If the quantity demanded changes a lot in response to a change in price, the demand is said to be elastic, and the price elasticity of demand will be high. If the quantity demanded changes only a little in response to a change in price, the demand is said to be inelastic, and the price elasticity of demand will be low. For example, if the price of a gallon of milk were to increase by 50%, and the quantity of milk demanded were to decrease by only 10%, the demand for milk would be said to be inelastic. On the other hand, if the price of a luxury car were to increase by 50% and the quantity demanded were to decrease by 50%, the demand for luxury cars would be said to be elastic. Price elasticity of demand is an important concept in economics, as it helps producers and policymakers understand how consumers will respond to changes in price. It can also help businesses make decisions about pricing strategies, such as whether to lower prices to increase demand or raise prices to increase profits.

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The maturity period of groundnut is typically between 4 to 5 months. This means that from the time the groundnut is planted until it is fully grown and ready for harvest, it takes between 4 to 5 months. During this period, the groundnut undergoes several stages of growth, including germination, flowering, and pod development, until it reaches maturity. The length of the maturity period can vary depending on the specific variety of groundnut and the growing conditions, such as climate, soil, and water availability. However, on average, it takes about 4 to 5 months for groundnuts to reach maturity and be ready for harvesting.

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The option "Kidding" is not a branch of agriculture. Agriculture is the science, art, and business of cultivating land, raising crops, and raising livestock for food, fuel, and other products. Agriculture includes many branches such as agronomy, horticulture, animal husbandry, and agricultural economics, among others. Forestry is the science of managing and conserving forests, including the study of trees, woodlands, and their ecosystem. Fishery is the study and management of fish and other aquatic species for commercial, recreational, and conservation purposes. "Kidding" is not a recognized branch of agriculture and is not related to the field.

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Dura, Tenera, and Pisifera are all cultivated varieties of oil palm. Oil palm is a type of palm tree that is grown for its fruit, which contains a high amount of oil that is used for cooking and in many other products. The three varieties, Dura, Tenera, and Pisifera, are all different in their physical characteristics and the amount of oil they produce. 1. Dura: This variety of oil palm has thick-shelled fruit with a relatively low oil content. It is commonly used as a rootstock for grafting other varieties onto. 2. Tenera: This variety is a hybrid between Dura and Pisifera and is the most commonly cultivated variety of oil palm. Its fruit has a thinner shell and higher oil content compared to Dura. 3. Pisifera: This variety has thin-shelled fruit and a high oil content, but it is less commonly cultivated than Tenera because its fruit is prone to damage and disease. In summary, Dura, Tenera, and Pisifera are all cultivated varieties of oil palm that have different physical characteristics and oil content. Tenera is the most commonly cultivated variety because it has the best balance of fruit quality and oil content.

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The advantages of the sprinkler method of irrigation include the fact that the system can be made automatic, they are portable making them suitable for use, and the rate of application of irrigation water can be controlled. However, one disadvantage of the sprinkler method is that it may be difficult for local farmers to use. The sprinkler method of irrigation involves spraying water onto the crops from above, using a system of pipes and nozzles. This method is beneficial because it allows for water to be distributed evenly over the crops, which helps to ensure that each plant receives an adequate amount of water. The system can also be made automatic, which means that it can be set to turn on and off at specific times, making it a convenient option for farmers. Additionally, the portability of the sprinkler system makes it suitable for use in a variety of settings, including fields, gardens, and lawns. Farmers can easily move the sprinkler system from one area to another, allowing them to irrigate different parts of their land as needed. The rate of application of irrigation water can also be controlled with the sprinkler method. This means that farmers can adjust the amount of water that is applied to their crops, depending on factors such as weather conditions and the stage of growth of the plants. However, one disadvantage of the sprinkler method is that it may be difficult for local farmers to use, especially if they lack the technical knowledge and skills required to install and maintain the system. Additionally, the cost of setting up a sprinkler system may be prohibitive for some farmers, which can limit its accessibility.

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The process of mating in sheep is called "tupping." Tupping refers to the act of a male sheep (also known as a ram) mounting a female sheep (also known as a ewe) to engage in sexual intercourse. The ram uses its front legs to stand on the ewe's back and align its reproductive organs with hers, while also using its hind legs to thrust and achieve penetration. This process is a natural part of the sheep breeding cycle and is essential for producing new lambs. In summary, tupping is the specific term used to describe the act of a male sheep mating with a female sheep to facilitate reproduction.

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The most unreliable source of power on the farm is wind. This is because wind is a highly variable and unpredictable resource that can change in strength and direction quickly. Unlike other sources of power, such as electricity or heat engines, which are more consistent and controllable, wind power is subject to the whims of nature and can't be relied upon to provide consistent and reliable power for farming operations. Additionally, wind turbines require a minimum wind speed to generate power, and in calm weather conditions, they may not produce any power at all.

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The type of land tenure system is the freehold system. The freehold system is a type of land tenure system in which an individual or entity owns the land outright and has the right to use, occupy, and sell the land as they see fit. This type of system is common in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. Under the freehold system, the owner of the land has complete control over it, and can use it for any legal purpose, such as agriculture, residential or commercial development, or conservation. The owner is also responsible for paying property taxes on the land and any structures or improvements that are built on it. This system is different from other types of land tenure systems, such as leasehold or communal systems, where individuals or groups have limited rights to use or occupy the land, and ownership may be held by a government entity or a community as a whole. Overall, the freehold system is designed to provide individuals or entities with secure and exclusive rights to use and manage the land, which can encourage investment, development, and long-term planning.

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Rice is the cereal crop that most requires nursery practices. Rice is typically started from seed in a controlled nursery environment before being transplanted to the field. This process is known as "direct seeding" and it involves sowing the rice seeds in a seedbed or nursery, where they can be carefully tended and protected from pests and other threats until they are strong enough to be transplanted. Nursery practices for rice can include things like preparing the seedbed, selecting high-quality seeds, managing water and nutrients, controlling pests and diseases, and ensuring proper spacing between seedlings. Once the seedlings have grown to a certain size and are strong enough to withstand transplanting, they are carefully uprooted and moved to the main field. While other cereal crops like maize, millet, and guinea corn can also benefit from certain nursery practices, they are typically started directly in the field through methods like broadcasting or drilling. Rice, on the other hand, is more commonly transplanted from a nursery, making it the cereal crop that most requires nursery practices.

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The main difference between a disc plough and a disc harrow is their purpose and how they interact with the soil. A disc plough is used to turn over and break up the soil to create furrows for planting crops, while a disc harrow is used to break up clumps of soil, level the ground, and prepare it for planting by chopping up weeds, roots, and plant residue. The disc part of a plough is notched, which helps it to cut through the soil, while the disc part of a harrow is round, which allows it to smooth out the soil surface.

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Farm operations are done by different sources of power, namely human, animal, oil engine, tractor, power tiller, electricity and renewable energy (biogas, solar and wind). Human beings are the main source of power for operating small tools and implements. Choice D is correct. Plough is not 2 source of farm power.

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In agriculture, a harrow (often called a set of harrows in a plurale tantum sense) is an implement for breaking up and smoothing out the surface of the soil. In this way it is distinct in its effect from the plough, which is used for deeper tillage. The farm machinery used to sow seeds and apply fertilizer at the same time is a harrow. Therefore, choice D is correct.

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Fertilizers are applied to fishponds to serve as nutrients for plankton. Plankton are tiny organisms that live in water and are a primary source of food for fish. Fertilizers contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus that are necessary for the growth and reproduction of plankton. As the plankton grow and multiply, they provide a valuable food source for fish in the pond. Additionally, the plankton consume nutrients in the water, which can help purify it by reducing the levels of harmful chemicals and pollutants. Therefore, applying fertilizers to fishponds can help promote the growth of plankton and ultimately support a healthy ecosystem for fish.

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Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of dissimilar or different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons. It is done so that the soil of farms is not used for only one set of nutrients. It helps in reducing soil erosion and increases soil fertility and yield crop. Choice A is correct. Crop rotation involves the growing of crops one after other in a particular sequence

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Coffee is cultivated in many places in tropical Latin America, Asia and Africa between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. It grows best in places with rich soil, reliable rainfall and altitudes between 3000 and 6000 feet. As a rule, the higher the elevation the coffee is grown the better the quality. The ideal pH of coffee is between 6.5 to 7.5. Therefore, choice D is correct.

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To calculate the amount of manure required per hectare, we need to use the ratio of phosphorus in manure to the amount of phosphorus required per hectare. Given that 1kg of manure contains 0.32kg of phosphorus, we can calculate the amount of manure required to supply 1.5kg of phosphorus per hectare as follows: 1.5 kg phosphorus / 0.32 kg phosphorus per 1 kg manure = 4.69 kg manure per hectare Therefore, the amount of manure required per hectare to supply the required amount of phosphorus is 4.69 kg. So, (4.69kg) is the correct answer.

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Out of the four options, "Involvement in local politics" is not a quality of a good extension worker. An extension worker is a professional who helps farmers and rural communities to adopt new technologies and improve their agricultural practices. To be effective in this role, an extension worker should have certain qualities, such as: - Organizational Ability: The ability to plan and carry out activities efficiently, and to manage resources effectively. - Clear Judgement: The ability to analyze information, make sound decisions, and provide advice to others. - Initiative: The ability to take the lead in solving problems and identifying opportunities for improvement. Involvement in local politics is not a quality of a good extension worker because extension workers should maintain impartiality and not align themselves with any particular political party or interest group. They should be focused on providing impartial and evidence-based advice to support the development of the rural communities they serve.

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Prevention, or at least alleviation, of the effects of viruses, involves:
(1) Elimination of sources of virus.
(2) Elimination of the virus from infected plants.
(3) Control of vectors.
(4) Breeding for resistance and the use of cross-protection methods.
Each of these approaches to control will be considered.
Planting resistant varieties of a plant/crop is the most effective method of controlling or preventing viral diseases since, the varieties can resist viral infections.

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The engine oil in a tractor is something that requires daily checking. Engine oil is a vital component of any engine, including those found in tractors. It helps lubricate the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and heat buildup that can damage the engine over time. It also helps remove contaminants and debris from the engine, keeping it clean and operating smoothly. Because tractors are often used in dusty, dirty, and challenging environments, the engine oil can become contaminated quickly. Therefore, it is important to check the oil level and quality on a daily basis to ensure that the engine is properly lubricated and functioning at optimal levels. While other components like the spark plug, air cleaner, and battery are also important and should be checked regularly, they do not require daily checking like the engine oil. In summary, the component that requires daily checking in a tractor is the engine oil.

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The following options are the importance of agriculture except for "Lack of good food." Agriculture is the practice of cultivating land, rearing animals, and producing food, fiber, and other products. It is a crucial sector of the economy and plays a significant role in the social and economic development of many countries. The importance of agriculture includes the following: 1. Provision of food: Agriculture is essential for the provision of food for humans and animals. It provides raw materials for the production of various food products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and animal products. 2. Provision of employment opportunities: Agriculture is a significant source of employment in many countries, especially in rural areas. It provides jobs for millions of people, including farmers, farm workers, and those involved in processing, storage, and transportation of agricultural products. 3. Contribution to the economy: Agriculture is a significant contributor to the economy of many countries. It provides raw materials for various industries, including the textile, pharmaceutical, and food industries. 4. Environmental conservation: Agriculture plays a crucial role in environmental conservation through sustainable land management practices such as conservation tillage, crop rotation, and the use of cover crops. In summary, agriculture is essential for the provision of food, employment opportunities, contribution to the economy, and environmental conservation. However, "Lack of good food" is not an importance of agriculture but rather a challenge that agriculture seeks to overcome by providing adequate and quality food for all.

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Minerals essential for animal life include common salt (sodium chloride), calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, potassium, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper, cobalt, iodine, zinc, molybdenum, and selenium. The last six of these can be toxic to animals if excessive amounts are eaten. Palm oil not a source of minerals in animal nutrition.