Category: P

pepper: 1. A spice, either black or white, made from the berry-like fruit of the pepper vine. 2. The fruit of the Capsicum, either red, yellow, or green. Growing and processing peppers provides valuable spice and vegetable crops that meet market demand.

predation: The killing and eating of other animals. Helpful content: Understanding predation dynamics is important for managing wildlife and protecting livestock. Farmers can implement measures such as fencing and guardian animals to reduce predation risks and safeguard their animals.

polysaprobic: Referring to organisms that can survive in heavily polluted water. Helpful content: Recognizing the presence of polysaprobic organisms can indicate water quality issues. Farmers can adopt practices to improve water management and reduce pollution, supporting healthier aquatic ecosystems.

peri-urban: On the edge of a built-up area. Managing peri-urban areas can provide opportunities for urban agriculture and enhance food security in cities.

polytunnel: A cover for growing plants, like a large greenhouse, made of a rounded plastic roof attached to semi-circular supports. Helpful content: Polytunnels extend the growing season, protect crops from adverse weather, and improve plant growth conditions. Farmers can use polytunnels to increase yield and quality of produce, especially in regions with challenging climates.

proximate analysis: A method of chemical analysis used on animal feedingstuffs, which measures the amounts of ash, crude fibre, crude protein, ether extract, moisture content, and nitrogen-free extract. Helpful content: Proximate analysis provides valuable information on feed composition. Farmers can use this data to formulate balanced diets and improve feed efficiency for livestock.

parrot mouth: A malformation of the upper jaw of horses, preventing proper mastication. The condition prevents the horse from grazing. Early detection and management of congenital issues like parrot mouth improve animal welfare and productivity.

pecan: A North American tree (Carya illinoensis) which produces sweet nuts that are eaten as dessert nuts and used in many forms of confectionery. Growing pecans provides a valuable nut crop that meets market demand and can be sold fresh or processed.

pasture: Grass or other plants grown for feeding grazing animals. Managing pastures effectively ensures adequate nutrition for livestock and maintains soil health.

porcine somatotropin: A hormone administered to feeder pigs, which has been shown to increase feed efficiency, the ratio of lean meat to carcass weight, and market weight. Abbr PST. Helpful content: Using porcine somatotropin can enhance growth rates and feed conversion efficiency in pigs, leading to higher production yields and improved profitability for pig farmers.