Category: A

agriculturalist: A person trained in applying the principles of science to farming. Farmers benefit from the expertise of agriculturalists to enhance their practices and productivity.

ADAS: A commercial research-based organization that offers technical advice on agricultural, food, and environmental matters to rural industries. Former name Agricultural Development and Advisory Service. Farmers can benefit from ADAS expertise to improve their farming practices.

allotment: A small area of land, owned by a municipality, which is let to a person called an allotment-holder for the cultivation and production of vegetables and fruit for the consumption of the holder and his or her family. Allotments provide farmers with additional land for cultivation and income.

aflatoxin: A toxin produced by species of the fungus Aspergillus, especially Aspergillus flavus, which grows on seeds and nuts and affects stored grain. Farmers need to manage aflatoxin contamination to ensure the safety and quality of their produce.

agricultural engineering: The application of the principles of science to farming. Understanding agricultural engineering helps farmers adopt technologies and practices that enhance productivity and sustainability.

alpaca: An animal which is similar to the llama. A native of the Andes, it is domesticated and reared for its very soft and elastic wool. Raising alpacas provides farmers with valuable fiber and diversification opportunities.

Anglo-Nubian: A hardy breed of goat with high milk yields. It has a brown coat with white patches. Raising Anglo-Nubian goats provides farmers with valuable milk production and fiber.

adventitious: Referring to a root which develops from a node on a plant stem and not from another root. Understanding adventitious roots helps farmers propagate plants more effectively.

aldosterone: A hormone secreted by the adrenal gland which regulates the balance of sodium and potassium in the body and the amount of body fluid. Understanding hormone functions helps farmers manage livestock health.

acute: Referring to a disease which comes on rapidly and can be dangerous. Understanding acute conditions helps farmers respond quickly to health issues in their livestock.