WAEC SSCE - Agricultural Science - 1988 (Objective)

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All decisions are important for a farmer to make, and each can benefit them in different ways. However, the decision that will not benefit a farmer is to diversify production from the beginning without first establishing a successful production system for a particular crop or livestock. Diversification can be a good strategy for farmers to mitigate risk and improve their income, but it should not be done at the expense of the primary production system. A farmer should first focus on establishing a successful production system for a particular crop or livestock, then diversify into other crops or livestock. This will enable the farmer to build experience and expertise in one area, and then apply that knowledge to other areas for a more successful diversification.

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The relationship between microorganisms and plants in the nitrogen cycle is best described as symbiosis. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth and is often limited in soil. Nitrogen gas makes up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere, but it is not in a form that plants can use. The nitrogen cycle is a process by which nitrogen is converted into a usable form for plants, and microorganisms play a vital role in this process. Some microorganisms, such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, form a symbiotic relationship with plants. These bacteria live in the roots of plants and convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into a form that plants can use, such as ammonia or nitrate. In return, the plant provides the bacteria with carbohydrates and other nutrients. Other microorganisms, such as nitrifying bacteria, convert ammonia into nitrate, which is also used by plants. Still, others, such as denitrifying bacteria, convert nitrate back into nitrogen gas, completing the nitrogen cycle. Overall, the relationship between microorganisms and plants in the nitrogen cycle is best described as symbiosis, as they rely on each other for survival and growth. Without microorganisms, plants would not have access to the nitrogen they need to grow, and without plants, microorganisms would not have a source of energy and nutrients.

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The situation where only certain trees in a forest reserve are cut down while leaving other trees intact is known as selective exploitation. In this process, specific trees are identified and marked for cutting, while the remaining trees are left to continue growing. This is done to minimize the impact on the environment and maintain the biodiversity of the forest. Selective exploitation is a sustainable way of managing forests, as it allows for the extraction of timber while ensuring that the forest ecosystem remains healthy and intact.

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The alternate heating and cooling of rocks result in fragmentation. This is because when rocks are subjected to repeated heating and cooling cycles, they expand and contract due to the changes in temperature. This expansion and contraction cause stress on the rocks, which eventually leads to the formation of cracks and fractures. Over time, the continued stress on the rocks causes them to break down into smaller pieces, resulting in fragmentation. This process is also known as thermal stress weathering.

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The type of soil that contains particles of diameter between 0.02 mm and 2.0 mm is called sand. Sand particles are larger than silt and clay particles but smaller than gravel particles. This type of soil is characterized by its ability to drain water quickly and its low nutrient-holding capacity. Because of its good drainage properties, sand soils are often used for crops that require good drainage, such as carrots, radishes, and other root vegetables. However, they may require more frequent irrigation and fertilization compared to soils with higher nutrient-holding capacity. Sand soils are also commonly used in construction for making concrete and as a building material.

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The biotic factor that influences agricultural production is a parasite. A parasite is a living organism that lives on or inside another living organism, known as the host, and obtains its nutrients from the host. Parasites can affect agricultural production by causing diseases in plants and animals, reducing their growth, and causing death. In agriculture, plant parasites such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses can cause crop diseases, which can significantly reduce crop yields. Animal parasites, such as ticks and worms, can also infect livestock and reduce their productivity. Therefore, controlling parasites is essential in agriculture to maintain the health and productivity of crops and livestock.

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Loss of appetite, respiratory difficulties, and nervous paralysis are symptoms of Newcastle disease in birds. Newcastle disease is a highly contagious viral infection that affects a wide range of bird species, including domestic poultry. The disease is characterized by respiratory signs, such as gasping, coughing, and nasal discharge, as well as digestive signs like diarrhea and a decrease in feed and water consumption. The nervous system can also be affected, leading to paralysis of the legs, wings, and neck. Newcastle disease can have a significant impact on the poultry industry and can result in high mortality rates in infected flocks.

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The efficiency of agricultural production is not usually improved by the improved sales of crop and livestock. Although the sales of agricultural products generate income for farmers and contribute to their economic well-being, they do not directly improve the efficiency of agricultural production. Efficiency is improved by various practices such as using improved crop varieties and livestock breeds, increasing the use of manure and fertilizers, controlling pests, diseases and weeds, and using better farm equipment and tools. These practices are designed to increase the quantity and quality of the agricultural products, reduce waste, and minimize costs. By doing so, they increase the productivity and profitability of the farm, which in turn can lead to improved sales.

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The plant-a-tree-campaign of the Federal Government of Nigeria is a way of encouraging forest regeneration. This means that the campaign aims to encourage the planting of new trees to replace those that have been lost due to deforestation, logging, and other forms of human activities that lead to the destruction of forests. The campaign is aimed at restoring the ecosystem, reducing the effects of climate change, and promoting biodiversity by creating new habitats for plants and animals. By encouraging people to plant trees, the campaign is promoting a sustainable way of managing forests for the benefit of current and future generations.

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The question is asking to identify the problem associated with land tenure through inheritance that is not applicable. The option that is not applicable to the problems associated with land tenure through inheritance is "right of individuals to free use and control of inherited land". The right to use and control inherited land is a common issue in inheritance and is actually one of the problems associated with land tenure through inheritance. Therefore, the answer to the question is: "right of individuals to free use and control of inherited land".

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The Kuri breed of cattle is commonly found in the Borno area of Nigeria. The breed is adapted to the arid and semi-arid environments of the Sahel region of Africa, which includes parts of Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. The Kuri breed is known for its tolerance to heat and drought, making it well-suited for the dry climate of the Sahel. It is also valued for its meat and milk production. While the other areas listed may have their own indigenous breeds of cattle, the Kuri breed is particularly associated with the Borno area of Nigeria due to its adaptation to the region's environmental conditions. Therefore, the Kuri breed of cattle is commonly found in the Borno area of Nigeria.

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A piece of land is said to be on lease to a farmer when the land is given for a specified period on a rental basis. Leasing is an arrangement where the owner of the land, known as the lessor, grants the right to use the land to another person, known as the lessee, for a specific period. The lessee pays rent to the lessor for the use of the land during this period. The lease period may be short-term, such as one or two years, or long-term, such as 10, 20, or even 99 years. At the end of the lease period, the land reverts back to the lessor, and the lessee must vacate the land.

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The farm practice that can prevent excessive evaporation from soil surfaces is called mulching. Mulching is the process of covering the soil surface with a layer of organic or inorganic materials, such as straw, leaves, wood chips, plastic film or gravel. This layer acts as a barrier between the soil and the atmosphere, reducing the rate of water loss through evaporation. Mulching helps to conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, reduce soil erosion and maintain soil temperature. By reducing water loss from the soil surface, mulching enables crops to utilize more of the available water, resulting in increased plant growth and yield. In contrast, ploughing, harrowing, weeding, and liming are other farm practices that can improve soil health, but they do not specifically address the issue of excessive evaporation.

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The common surveying equipment for farmland does not include the spade. A spade is a tool used for digging and is not typically used for measuring or surveying land. The other options listed are commonly used surveying equipment for farmland. A ranging pole is used to mark points and to measure vertical distances. A prismatic compass is used to determine the direction of a line. A measuring tape is used to measure horizontal distances. A Gunter's chain is a measuring tool used to measure larger areas. In summary, while the ranging pole, prismatic compass, measuring tape, and Gunter's chain are all commonly used surveying equipment for farmland, the spade is not used for this purpose.

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The process of making hay involves cutting, drying, and then baling the grass or other forage crops. First, the farmer cuts the grass or forage crop in the field when it is at the right stage of growth. This is usually done with a specialized machine called a mower or a haybine. Next, the cut grass is left in the field to dry. This is typically done by spreading the cut grass out in rows called windrows so that it can dry in the sun. The drying process can take several days, depending on the weather conditions. Once the grass is dry, it is then baled using a machine called a baler. The baler compresses the dry grass into tightly packed bales that are easier to store and transport. Overall, the main steps in making hay are cutting the forage crop, drying it in the sun, and then baling it into compact bales for storage and transportation.

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A farmer cultivating leafy vegetables will require fertilizers with a relatively high content of nitrogen. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth and is needed in larger quantities than other nutrients. Leafy vegetables, such as lettuce, spinach, and cabbage, require large amounts of nitrogen to support their rapid vegetative growth and the production of green foliage. Nitrogen is a component of chlorophyll, which is responsible for the green color of leaves and is essential for photosynthesis. Fertilizers with high nitrogen content provide the necessary nutrients for leafy vegetables to grow quickly, produce more foliage, and increase their overall yield. However, excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers can lead to environmental problems such as groundwater contamination and greenhouse gas emissions. Overall, nitrogen is an essential nutrient for leafy vegetable production, and fertilizers with a relatively high content of nitrogen are necessary to support their growth and yield.

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The type of rocks formed from molten magma is known as igneous rocks. These rocks are formed when magma (molten rock beneath the Earth's surface) or lava (molten rock on the Earth's surface) cools and solidifies. As the magma or lava cools, it undergoes a process of crystallization, forming minerals that eventually make up the igneous rock. Igneous rocks can be classified into two main types based on where they formed: intrusive and extrusive. Intrusive igneous rocks form when magma cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface, while extrusive igneous rocks form when lava cools quickly on the Earth's surface. Some common examples of igneous rocks include granite, basalt, and pumice.

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Earthworms are important to farmers because they improve the soil in many ways. They tunnel through the soil, creating spaces for air and water to move through. This helps to improve the soil structure, which means the soil holds its shape better and doesn't get compacted as easily. Earthworms also break down organic matter, such as dead leaves and plant debris, and turn it into nutrient-rich castings that plants can use for food. This helps to add nutrients to the soil and makes it more fertile. In addition, earthworms can help to prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place with their burrows. When it rains, the water can flow through the soil instead of washing it away. Overall, earthworms are important to farmers because they help to create healthy soil that supports the growth of crops.

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Crops grown primarily for feeding animals are known as forage crops. Forage crops are crops that are specifically cultivated to provide food for grazing animals, such as cattle, sheep, and goats. They are typically high in fiber and nutrients that are important for animal health and growth. Examples of forage crops include grasses, such as Timothy grass and Bermuda grass, as well as legumes, such as clover and alfalfa. These crops are often harvested as hay or silage, which can be stored for later use as animal feed. While the other options listed may also be used for animal feed, such as vegetables and cereals, the term "forage" specifically refers to crops that are grown primarily for animal consumption. Therefore, crops grown primarily for feeding animals are known as forage crops.

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The reproductive cells of crops are called gametes. Gametes are specialized cells that combine during fertilization to form a zygote, which ultimately develops into a new plant. In crops, the male gametes are produced in the anthers of the flower, while the female gametes are produced in the ovules. Gametes contain half the genetic material of a normal cell, and when they combine during fertilization, they form a zygote with a complete set of genetic material. This process allows for genetic diversity and variation in crop populations.

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The type of energy obtained from the sun for agricultural uses is known as solar energy. Solar energy is the energy that is produced by the sun and is harnessed using various technologies such as solar panels, solar heaters, and solar dryers. In agriculture, solar energy can be used to power irrigation pumps, run electric fences, and provide lighting for buildings and greenhouses. Solar energy is a renewable source of energy, meaning it can be used repeatedly without being depleted. It is also a clean source of energy, producing no harmful emissions or pollution, making it an environmentally friendly option for agricultural applications.

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Mould is an example of a fungal disease that affects stored grains. It is a type of fungi that grows on the surface of grains, consuming nutrients from the grain and producing spores that can spread the infection to nearby grains. Mould growth is usually a sign of high moisture levels in the storage area or damage to the grain, and can lead to spoilage and decreased nutritional value of the grains. Control measures for mould growth include maintaining proper storage conditions such as low moisture and temperature levels, regular inspection of stored grains and treatment with fungicides.

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Feeds with high amount of fibre are classified as "roughages". Roughages are feeds that contain a high proportion of fiber relative to other nutrients. These include forages such as grasses, hay, and silage, as well as other fibrous feeds such as straw and corn stalks. Roughages are important in the diets of many livestock species because they provide bulk in the diet, which helps to stimulate digestion and keep the digestive tract healthy. They also tend to be less expensive than concentrates, which are feeds that are high in energy and low in fiber.

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Fish can be processed and preserved in a variety of ways, but one of the most common ways is through salting and smoking. Salting helps to remove moisture from the fish and creates an environment that is inhospitable to bacteria. Smoking the fish then adds flavor and helps to preserve it further by reducing the amount of water and oxygen available to bacteria. This process of salting and smoking can extend the shelf life of fish for several months. Another method of preserving fish is through fermentation, which is often used to make fish sauces and pastes. However, smoking and pasteurization are also sometimes used in fish preservation, but not as commonly as salting and smoking.

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Groundnut cake is commonly used as a source of plant protein in livestock ration. Groundnut cake is a by-product of groundnut oil extraction, and it contains a high percentage of protein, making it a valuable source of protein in animal feeds. It is often used as a replacement for soybean meal in livestock rations, especially in areas where soybean meal is not readily available or is too expensive. Maize, rice bran, wheat bran, and molasses are also commonly used in livestock rations, but they are not typically used as a primary source of protein.

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The groundnut rosette virus is transmitted by aphids. Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants. When they feed on a plant infected with the groundnut rosette virus, the virus can be transmitted to healthy plants through their mouthparts. Aphids can transmit the virus in a persistent manner, which means that the virus can remain in their bodies and be transmitted to other plants for a long period of time. This makes aphids a major vector for the transmission of groundnut rosette virus.

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Reduction of ten seedlings of pawpaw to two per stand is referred to as thinning. Thinning is the process of removing excess plants from a crop in order to achieve optimal plant population. In the case of pawpaw, thinning involves removing all but the strongest two seedlings in a stand. This allows the remaining seedlings to have more space, nutrients, and light to grow and develop properly, resulting in healthier and more productive plants.

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The question is asking for the option that is not associated with surface irrigation. Surface irrigation is a type of irrigation where water is distributed over the soil surface by gravity, and is commonly used in agriculture to water crops. Option C, sprinkler irrigation, is not associated with surface irrigation because it involves spraying water over the crops, as opposed to letting it flow over the soil surface. Sprinkler irrigation is a type of overhead irrigation, where water is distributed through a network of pipes and sprinkler heads. Therefore, the answer is option C, sprinkler irrigation.

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Anthrax is not caused by a virus. It is caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis. The other four diseases listed are caused by viruses.

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Granite is an igneous rock. Igneous rocks are formed from solidified magma or lava. Granite specifically is a plutonic rock, which means it forms deep beneath the Earth's surface when molten magma cools and solidifies slowly over a long period of time. It is composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals, and has a granular texture. Granite is a common type of rock that is used in construction for buildings, monuments, countertops, and other decorative applications due to its durability, strength, and attractive appearance.

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After clearing a new farmland, the next farm operation typically involves preparing the soil for planting. The implement that will be used for this operation is a plough. A plough is used to turn over the top layer of soil, which helps to break up any large clumps, and also to bury any unwanted weeds or plant material. This makes the soil loose and soft, which is ideal for planting crops. Harrows, ridgers, cultivators and planters are used for subsequent operations such as smoothing the soil, making furrows for planting, loosening soil for aeration and planting seeds.

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Dehorning is not a practice that a farmer would adopt in pig management. This is because pigs are not naturally horned animals, so there is no need for dehorning. The other practices listed are all common in pig management: ear notching is a method of identification, deworming helps to control internal parasites, castration is often done to prevent aggressive behavior and improve meat quality, and feeding iron supplements is important for the health of piglets.

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A capsule fruit is a type of fruit that consists of two or more carpels, which separate to release the seeds when the fruit is mature. Among the options given, the fruit that is a capsule is okra. Okra is a fruit that develops from the ovary of a flower and has a ridged and elongated shape. It contains multiple carpels, which split open when the fruit is ripe, releasing the numerous seeds inside.

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The brownish flattened and leaf-like parasite found in cattle is called a liver fluke. Liver flukes are flatworms that infect the liver of various animals, including cattle, sheep, and goats. They are named for their leaf-like shape and brownish color. Liver flukes can cause liver damage and other health problems in infected animals. They are commonly found in areas with wet, marshy conditions, as they require a snail intermediate host in their life cycle. While the other options listed are also parasites that can affect cattle, the brownish flattened and leaf-like appearance is most closely associated with liver flukes. Therefore, the brownish flattened and leaf-like parasite found in cattle is called a liver fluke.

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Mulching is not a method of controlling pests. Mulching is a technique used in agriculture and gardening to suppress weed growth, retain moisture in the soil, and regulate soil temperature. It involves covering the soil around plants with a layer of organic or inorganic material such as leaves, straw, plastic, or rocks. Although mulching can improve crop yields by providing a favorable growing environment, it does not control pests directly. The other options listed are methods of controlling pests. Quarantine involves isolating infested plants or animals to prevent the spread of pests. Crop rotation involves planting different crops in a particular field in a sequence to break the pest cycle. Fumigation involves exposing crops to gaseous chemicals to kill pests. Trapping involves capturing pests using baits or sticky traps to reduce their population.

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The agent of controlled pollination in plants is man. Controlled pollination is a process in which the pollen from one plant is transferred to the stigma of another plant with the aim of producing offspring with desirable traits. This process is carried out under controlled conditions by humans, usually plant breeders or farmers. Controlled pollination allows for the selection of specific traits in plants, such as disease resistance, improved yield, and better fruit quality. This is achieved by selecting the parent plants with the desired traits and then transferring the pollen from those plants to the stigma of the other parent plants. While wind, insects, birds, and water can also aid in the pollination of plants, controlled pollination requires the intentional intervention of humans to ensure that the desired traits are passed on to the offspring. Therefore, the agent of controlled pollination in plants is man.

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Soil texture is described as the distribution of the different sizes of soil particles. This includes sand, silt, and clay particles. Soil texture is an important characteristic of soil that affects its ability to retain water and nutrients, as well as its drainage and aeration properties. Sandy soils have larger particles and are generally well-drained, but do not retain water and nutrients as well as clay soils. Clay soils have smaller particles and are better at retaining water and nutrients, but are often poorly drained and have low aeration. The proportion of sand, silt, and clay particles in a soil sample determines its overall texture.

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Most biological activity occurs in the A-horizon of the soil profile. The A-horizon is also known as the topsoil layer, and it is the layer closest to the soil surface. This layer is rich in organic matter and contains high concentrations of soil organisms such as bacteria, fungi, earthworms, and other microorganisms that play essential roles in the decomposition of organic matter and the formation of soil nutrients. The high levels of organic matter and the presence of these soil organisms make the A-horizon the most fertile layer of the soil profile, and it is the layer where most plants roots are found. As a result, the A-horizon plays a critical role in soil health and plant growth.

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The head of the tapeworm is called the scolex. It is the part of the tapeworm that attaches itself to the intestinal wall of its host using hooks and suckers. The scolex is also responsible for producing new segments of the tapeworm's body.

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A small plot of land where intensive cultivation is practiced to produce vegetables is generally referred to as a garden. Gardens can be created in backyards or small plots of land and are often used for growing vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers for personal consumption or sale. Intensive cultivation involves the use of techniques such as crop rotation, intercropping, and the use of fertilizers and pesticides to maximize the yield of crops grown in a small space. The term "garden" can also be used to refer to larger areas of land used for cultivation, such as community gardens or botanical gardens, but in this context, it specifically refers to small plots used for intensive vegetable production.

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The most effective method of controlling or preventing viral diseases in plants is by planting resistant varieties. This is because resistant varieties of plants are genetically modified to be immune or less susceptible to the virus, which means they are less likely to be affected by the virus or can recover from it quickly without the need for chemical treatment. This approach is more sustainable and environmentally friendly as it reduces the need for chemical pesticides, which can harm beneficial insects and other organisms, as well as contaminate the soil and water. Therefore, planting resistant varieties is a more reliable and long-term solution for preventing the spread of viral diseases in plants.

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Fingerlings refer to the young of fish. They are small, juvenile fish that are typically between the size of a fry and a juvenile fish. Fingerlings are commonly used in aquaculture, which is the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms. They are raised in hatcheries and then stocked in ponds or other bodies of water where they are raised to maturity. Some common fish species that are raised as fingerlings include tilapia, catfish, trout, and salmon. Fingerlings are important for the aquaculture industry as they provide a sustainable source of fish for human consumption.

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The responsibility of exposing farmers to scientific knowledge lies with the extension personnel. Extension personnel are experts who have a good understanding of agricultural practices and scientific advancements in agriculture. They work closely with farmers and provide them with information, advice, and training on modern farming methods, new technologies, and other related information that can help improve agricultural productivity and profitability. Extension personnel play a vital role in bridging the gap between research institutions and farmers, ensuring that scientific knowledge and innovations are disseminated to farmers and adopted on the ground.

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Water cannot be used to rub the metal parts of farm tools before storage as it can lead to rusting. Rusting is the process where metal surfaces react with water and air to form iron oxide, which is a type of rust. This can cause damage to the metal and reduce the effectiveness and durability of the tool. Therefore, it is important to dry the metal parts thoroughly after cleaning and use a protective coating such as grease, palm oil, petroleum jelly or spent engine oil to prevent rusting.

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The causative organism of maize rust is a fungus. Maize rust is a fungal disease that affects maize crops, and it is caused by the fungus Puccinia polysora. The fungus attacks the leaves of the maize plant, causing yellowish-orange pustules or lesions on the upper surface of the leaves. These pustules eventually turn brown and release spores, which can spread the disease to other plants. Maize rust can significantly reduce crop yield and quality, and it is important for farmers to take measures to control its spread, such as planting resistant maize varieties and practicing good crop management practices.

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Progeny selection is a breeding technique that involves selecting breeding stock based on the performance of their offspring. This means that the animals that produce the most desirable offspring are chosen for breeding. The idea behind progeny selection is that the characteristics of the offspring are a good indicator of the genetic potential of the parent animals. By selecting breeding stock based on the performance of their offspring, breeders can improve the overall quality of their herd or flock over time. This technique differs from selecting breeding stock based on the individual merits of each animal, which is known as individual selection. Progeny selection is a more long-term approach that aims to improve the overall genetic potential of the breeding population. While parental characteristics and sire-dam relationship are important factors to consider in breeding, progeny selection is specifically focused on the performance of offspring. Therefore, the practice of progeny selection involves selecting breeding stock on the basis of the performance of their offspring.

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Ginning is the process of separating cotton fibre from its seed. It involves the use of a machine called a cotton gin, which uses a series of saws and screens to separate the cotton fibres from the seeds. The separated cotton fibres are then cleaned and pressed into bales for shipment to textile mills, where they are further processed into various products such as clothing, bedding, and industrial textiles.

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The most important symptom of brucellosis in cattle is abortion. Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that can cause cows to lose their calves before they are born. This is the most significant symptom because it can cause economic losses to farmers who rely on their cows to produce calves for milk and meat production. In addition, the bacteria that cause brucellosis can also be transmitted to humans, causing a serious disease called undulant fever. Therefore, it is essential to identify and control brucellosis in cattle to prevent the spread of the disease to humans and other animals.