Author: April Kingsman

Fascioliasis: A disease caused by an infestation of parasitic liver flukes. Farmers must monitor and treat livestock for fascioliasis to maintain herd health and productivity.

rain: Water that falls from clouds as small drops. Adequate rainfall is crucial for crop irrigation and overall farm productivity, making it vital for farmers to monitor weather patterns.

A measure of the number of somatic cells in milk, used as an indicator of udder health and milk quality. High SCC can indicate mastitis. For instance, monitoring SCC to ensure milk quality and manage mastitis in dairy cows.

digestibility trial: A test to measure the digestibility of a known food by recording the weight of food eaten and then excreted. Conducting digestibility trials is important for evaluating the nutritional value of animal diets. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to perform digestibility trials and develop balanced and nutritious diets for their livestock. Understanding the results of digestibility trials will aid in effective feed management and improved farm productivity.

Timothy: A palatable tufted perennial grass (Phleum pratense). It grows on a wide range of soils and is winter hardy. It is used in grazing mixtures and as a hay plant in conjunction with ryegrass. Growing Timothy grass can provide high-quality forage for livestock, improving nutrition and productivity.

hybrid: A new form of plant or animal resulting from a cross between organisms that have different genotypes. Growing hybrids can improve crop and livestock performance and productivity.

excreta: The waste material excreted from the body of an animal, e.g., faeces, urine, droppings, or sweat. Managing excreta helps farmers maintain hygiene and prevent disease spread.

bifoliate: Referring to a plant with two leaves only. Understanding plant morphology helps farmers identify and manage crops.

oxidase: An enzyme which encourages oxidation by removing hydrogen. Understanding the role of oxidase in biological processes can help farmers optimize livestock health and feed efficiency. Farmers can benefit from using enzyme supplements to enhance digestion and nutrient absorption in animals.

digestive enzymes: Enzymes which speed up the process of digestion. Providing digestive enzymes can improve the efficiency of nutrient absorption in livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to include digestive enzymes in animal diets as needed. Understanding the benefits and applications of digestive enzymes will aid in effective feed management and improved farm productivity.