AGN-115 Tests 1-4
A cover crop that is allowed to grow with the crop is called ____. (Ch. 16) A. Green mulch B. Green manure C. Living mulch D. Living manure E. None of the above
C. Living mulch
The ___ soil horizon normally has the lowest bulk density in undisturbed soil. (Soil Lec. and Ch. 8) A. A B. B C. C D. D E. None of the above - Roman numerals are used to identify soil horizons
A. A
Shredders, such as earthworms and macroarthropods, chew up decomposing organic matter in order to digest the bacteria and fungi that are on them. (Soil Biology Lecture) A. True B. False
A. True
Historically (e.g. 1993), about ___% of corn produced in the USA was used for cattle feed while <15% of it was used to produce ethanol. In 2013 about 40% was used for livestock feed while about ___% was used for ethanol production. (Lec. 4) A. 45; 25 B. 45; 35 C. 75; 20 D. 75; 40 E. None of these are reasonable estimates
(Not A) B?
Southern corn leaf blight (1970-71) ____. (Ch. 15) A. Destroyed almost all of the corn crop in Illinois and Indiana. B. Destroyed almost all of the corn crop from Virginia to Texas. C. Is an example of genetic vulnerability. D. Both A and B E. Both A and C
(Not A) E?
Compost offers a number of benefits, but it is particularly effective at __________. (Lec. 8) A. preventing weed seeds in the field from germinating B. providing for the nitrogen needs of a crop C. providing for the phosphorus needs of a crop D. inoculating the soil with beneficial microorganisms
(Not B) C?
__________ describes nutrients being taken up by an organism and retained in its biomass, and __________ describes nutrients being released from organisms in plant-available forms. (Lec. 8) A. Consumption; defecation B. Nutrient retention, nutrient leaching C. Immobilization, mineralization D. Absorption; predation
(Not B) C?
The figure indicates that at least __% groundcover (e.g. cover crop or residues from the previous crop) is required to reduce erosion by 80% when compared to the level of erosion occurring on bare soil. A. 15 B. 30 C. 45 D. 60 E. None of the above
(Not C) B?
People moved to farm the "dust bowl" states because ____. (Select all correct answers; PBS video) A. wheat was needed for the war effort ("wheat would win the war") B. federal programs gave up to 400 acres to each family that relocated from eastern states C. they were enticed by exaggerated advertising sponsored by railroad companies D. they were enticed by exaggerated advertising sponsored by states (e.g. Kansas)
(Only received 1 of 2 points) A. wheat was needed for the war effort ("wheat would win the war") B. federal programs gave up to 400 acres to each family that relocated from eastern states
Order the following ecological levels of organization from least (1) to most (4) complex. (Ch 2) A. Population B. Ecosystem C. Organism D. Community
1. Organism 2. Population 3. Community 4. Ecosystem
A series of events discussed in lecture lead to problems for shipping and industry on and around Lake Erie. Order the events below that explain how this all happened from first cause to final effect. (Lecture on Nutrient Sources and Cycling) A. Zebra mussel overpopulation results in damage to ships, pipes, docks, and industrial infrastructure B. Overapplication of fertilizer, especially phosphorus, on agricultural fields C. Soil erosion carries phosphorus (attached to soil particles) to Lake Erie D. Zebra mussels are accidentally introduced that filter the excess nutrients from the water and greatly improve water quality E. Eutrophication of Lake Erie causes growth of algae and nutrient-rich suspended sediment
1. Overapplication of fertilizer, especially phosphorus, on agricultural fields 2. Soil erosion carries phosphorus (attached to soil particles) to Lake Erie 3. Eutrophication of Lake Erie causes growth of algae and nutrient-rich suspended sediment 4. Zebra mussels are accidentally introduced that filter the excess nutrients from the water and greatly improve water quality 5. Zebra mussel overpopulation results in damage to ships, pipes, docks, and industrial infrastructure
Percolation rate of water in soil is determined by soil ____. (Ch. 9) A. structure B. residue cover C. porosity D. texture E. pH
A, B, C, and D
One example of how genetic engineering was used to produce a crop intended to improve human nutrition in developing countries was ___. (Ch. 15 and Lec. 5) A. "golden" rice B. Bt corn C. Roundup Ready soybean D. All of the above E. None of the above
A. "golden" rice
In the Fresh (2009) film, Diana Endicott suggested that people could have a significant positive economic impact on their communities by spending as little as ___ each week on locally produced food. A. $5 B. $10 C. $35 D. All of the given answers are too low
A. $5
On average, in 1950, one USA farmer produced enough food to feed about ___ people. (Lec. 4) A. 15 B. 50 C. 155 D. 205 E. All estimates are too low
A. 15
____________ represents an excellent biological tool for introducing specific bacterial genes into a crop species' genome. (Lecture 6) A. Agrobacterium tumefaciens B. Aspergillus flavus C. The gene gun D. Bacillus thuringiensis
A. Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Before contact with Europeans, all of the following domesticated crops might have been a part of a Central or South American's diet except ______. (Lec 6, Ch 15) A. Barley B. Potato C. Squash D. Bean E. Maize
A. Barley
Because of its longer growing season, generally warmer temperatures, and areas with sandy soils, the _______ region of Missouri is most associated with the production of cotton. (Lec. 1) A. Bootheel B. Northern C. Ozarks D. Great Rivers Region
A. Bootheel
_______ weed management is frequently employed in "conventional" row crop systems, but only occasionally used for "organic" row crops, whereas ________ weed management is frequently employed for "organic" row crop systems and only occasionally for "conventional" row crops. (Soil conservation lecture) A. Chemical, mechanical B. Mechanical, chemical C. Plowing, disking D. Disking, plowing
A. Chemical, mechanical
"Presence of many earthworms per square foot (900 cm2)." Would normally be associated with: A. Good soil health B. Poor soil health
A. Good soil health
According to the article "Cold Comfort Farms" from The Economist, which of the following are common impediments (barriers) to realizing full agricultural potential in Africa? Select all correct answers. (Partial credit is given for each correct answer selected; incorrect answers result in an equal deduction of partial credit.) A. Lack of agricultural researchers B. High prices for fertilizer C. Lack of arable land D. Salinization of soils E. Eutrophication F. Insufficient infrastructure (e.g. roads) G. Lack of labor H. Price caps and import subsidies
A. Lack of agricultural researchers B. High prices for fertilizer D. Salinization of soils F. Insufficient infrastructure (e.g. roads) H. Price caps and import subsidies
According to the textbook, much of the phosphorous consumed by humans is ___, however, in Springfield almost all of it (i.e. biosolids) is _____. (Figs. 2.5 and 8.4) A. Lost from the system (e.g. to ocean sediments); Re-cycled by direct land application B. Lost from the system (e.g. to ocean sediments); Incinerated C. Recycled by land application; Flushed into rivers following chlorination D. Incinerated; Recycled by land application E. None are correct
A. Lost from the system (e.g. to ocean sediments); Re-cycled by direct land application
A pest species that comes from an area of similar conditions that allows it to succeed and reproduce immediately in the new environment is said to be ____. (Pest Ecol.) A. Pre-adapted B. Naturalized C. Exotic D. Domesticated E. None of the given answers
A. Pre-adapted
All of the following conservation structures are intended to decrease sediment load in runoff except... A. Shelterbelts B. Contour ridge tillage C. Riparian buffers D. Reduced tillage
A. Shelterbelts
"Environmental resistance is the ability of a species to withstand stresses, threats, or limiting factors in the environment." Many of the genetic traits that conferred these resistances have been lost because breeders were focused on high yielding breeds/varieties. (Ch. 15) A. True B. False
A. True
"Stock density" refers to the amount (weight or mass) of animals on a given area of land. (Grazing Sys. Lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
About 20 years ago (Pimentel et al. 1995) the annual costs of soil erosion in the USA were estimated to be in excess of $44 Billion. A. True B. False
A. True
According to the Soil Science Society of America's definition, mined materials such as Chilean nitrate and manure from animals (e.g. chicken poop) are both considered "fertilizers". (Lec. 6) A. True B. False
A. True
Although it is imperfect, the peer-review process of scientific literature is intended to hold researchers accountable to the data and to minimize speculation and bias in reporting results of scientific study. (Lec 3) A. True B. False
A. True
An ideal soil will have 50% of its volume as pore spaces, which could be occupied by air and water. (Ch. 8) A. True B. False
A. True
Animals transform plant biomass into useful forms of energy and matter. (Ch. 19) A. True B. False
A. True
Bt corn contains a gene from naturally-occurring soil bacteria. The protein it produces is toxic to lepidopteran species (i.e. moths and butterflies). Although it was intended to kill pest insects such as corn earworm, it could also kill Monarch butterflies if sufficient pollen was consumed. A. True B. False
A. True
Cattle benefit and are more profitable when they have shade and windbreaks in agroforestry systems. (Ch. 18) A. True B. False
A. True
Cereal rye planted in the spring will form an allelopathic mulch by late spring even if it has not undergone the process of vernalization. (Cover Crops Lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
Cover crops are often planted in mixtures of at least one grass and one legume. (Cover Crop Lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
Cover crops can offer physical protection to the soil from sunlight, wind, and rain, and can provide nutrients and suppress weeds. (Ch. 16 and Cover Crop lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
Curly calf is a lethal genetic defect that can be avoided by testing cattle for the presence of the recessive allele that causes the condition before breeding. A. True B. False
A. True
Farmers and scientists employ the agroecosystem concept to understand farming systems in terms of biotic and abiotic interactions, emergent properties, and nutrient cycling. (Ch 2) A. True B. False
A. True
Fermentation Product Chymosin (FPC) has been used since about 1990 as a substitute for animal-derived rennet in cheese-making. This product of GMOs has resulted in no documented illnesses or deaths. A. True B. False
A. True
Few plants, especially agricultural crops, grow well outside the pH range of 5 to 8. (Ch. 8) A. True B. False
A. True
Few plants, especially agricultural crops, grow well outside the soil pH range of 5 to 8. (Ch. 8) A. True B. False
A. True
Gliessman describes crop community interactions in terms of "interferences". Interferences can have beneficial, detrimental, or neutral effects on other organisms. (Ch. 16) A. True B. False
A. True
Growers of StarLink corn (GMO) were required to sell their grain to industrial or animal feed uses, but most of them had no idea where their grain went. Ultimately, StarLink corn was found as a contaminant in corn food products. The US Center for Disease Control investigated 28 claims of allergic reactions but was unable to confirm that these persons were allergic to Cry9c protein. A. True B. False
A. True
Human-accelerated erosion is typically many times worse -- perhaps 10 or 1000X worse -- than geological erosion. (Soil Con. Lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
In Missouri, the recommended soil pH test includes a little salt in the solution to reduce the effects of seasonal variation. (Unit 8 Lecture) A. True B. False
A. True
In a mass-selected plant variety, overall genetic diversity within the variety is greater than that of any individual seed in the variety. (Ch. 15) A. True B. False
A. True
In addition to the millions of tons of topsoil in "dust bowl' storms, thousands of people suffered (and many died) from mysterious illnesses resulting from dust inhalation. (PBS video) A. True B. False
A. True
In research carried out by W. Bettiol in 1999, high concentrations of cow milk were found to be more effective for the control of powdery mildew in zucchini plants than conventional fungicides that they tested. (Pest Ecology Lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
In terms of agro-ecosystem diversity, an example of undesirable "simplification" of the system would be the loss of predatory insects through indiscriminate use of a broad-spectrum insecticide. (Ch. 17) A. True B. False
A. True
In the Penn and Teller: Norman Borlaug (2003) video, Dr. Terri Lomax, professor of Botany and Plant Pathology (OSU), said that genetically modified crops are subjected to millions of dollars in testing and are regulated by EPA, FDA and USDA, while protestors and administrators (e.g. Charles Margulus) affiliated with Greenpeace claimed the crops were released without any testing. A. True B. False
A. True
In the Penn and Teller: Norman Borlaug (2003) video, Dr. Terri Lomax, professor of Botany and Plant Pathology (OSU), stated that no plants containing animal or human genes had been released into the environment. However, rice has been used in more recent years on a test-scale to synthesize human proteins for use in treating illness from dehydration, and the Ebola drug ZMapp includes animal antibodies. A. True B. False
A. True
In the effort to quantify sustainability in the interest of research, agroecologists have borrowed from the methodological tools of ecology and environmental sociology to evaluate system sustainability as a whole (holistically). (Ch 23) A. True B. False
A. True
Intensive (frequent) tillage, combined with monoculture and short crop rotations, leaves the soil exposed to the erosive effects of wind and rain. (Ch. 1) A. True B. False
A. True
Market economics often takes a short-term view, whereas sustainability requires that planning and decision making consider a much longer time frame. (Ch. 26) A. True B. False
A. True
Mixed species grazing in the Serengeti of East Africa (and in agro-ecosystems elsewhere) results in different herbivores eating different plants, plant parts, and growth stages of plants. (Ch. 19) A. True B. False
A. True
Money spent on locally grown food can generate nearly twice as much income for the local economy as money spent on food from afar. (Ch. 25) A. True B. False
A. True
Mulches and cover crops protect soil from erosion and suppress weeds, but may delay planting because the soil will warm more slowly. (Lec. 10) A. True B. False
A. True
Norman Borlaug greatly increased yields for farmers in Mexico, India and Pakistan using classical breeding techniques to produce a rust-resistant, dwarf wheat variety that was especially responsive to fertilization and irrigation. A. True B. False
A. True
Of the two photosynthesis pathways that occur commonly in crop species, plants using the C4 pathway are most water efficient. (Ch. 3) A. True B. False
A. True
Pathogens and a failure to separate industrial waste (e.g. heavy metals) from human waste complicate the use of sewage in agriculture. (Ch. 8) A. True B. False
A. True
People in the poorest nations normally spend (on average) more than 20% of their disposable income on food. (Lec. 4) A. True B. False
A. True
Polyploids are common, natural occurrences among our modern day food crops, but also can be induced by chemical treatments (Ch. 15 and Lec. 4) A. True B. False
A. True
Raindrop impact on tiny soil particles was equated to a bomb blast during lecture because of the great power of raindrops to disperse soil particles from unprotected soil. A. True B. False
A. True
Relationships within an ecosystem can be examined at the level of an individual plant interacting with environmental conditions such as temperature or moisture. (Ch. 2) A. True B. False
A. True
Selection for only a narrow set of traits such as yield and durability for transport represents a threat to crop genetic diversity. A. True B. False
A. True
South Missouri is located at the northern edge of the productive zone of bermudagrass. Therefore, a potential grower of this species should take care to select a cold tolerant variety. (Lec. 13) A. True B. False
A. True
Species mixtures of cover crops might experience reduced competition from one another if their rooting architectures differ. (cover crop lecture) A. True B. False
A. True
Stiff-stemmed grasses could be used to prevent "sandblasting" injury to sensitive crops if the grasses are planted perpendicular to the prevailing direction of erosive winds. A. True B. False
A. True
Sufficient, consistent, sustainable food production is important because food, like water and energy, is a foundational need, and disruptions in supply or price can quickly lead to civil unrest, violence, and political conflict. (Lec 5) A. True B. False
A. True
The dis-integration of livestock and crops in farming operations came about with the widespread introduction of specialized machinery, fertilizers, and pesticides following WWII, but specialization in USA agriculture began decades before that. (Ch. 19) A. True B. False
A. True
The first step in troubleshooting field crop problems is to determine the age and variety of the crop so that you know what it should normally look like. (MU Ext G4050) A. True B. False
A. True
The genetic base of agriculture has narrowed as human societies have become increasingly dependent on a few species of food-producing organisms and a reduced number of genes and genetic combinations. (Ch. 15) A. True B. False
A. True
The least obvious form of soil erosion is called sheet erosion. Sheet erosion can be a severe problem but can escape notice since thin layers of soil are lost over time. A. True B. False
A. True
The light reactions of photosynthesis make ATP and NADPH, which are portable forms of chemical energy. (Ch. 3) A. True B. False
A. True
The shrink-swell capacity of a clay is a function of the arrangement of layers of silicate tetrahedra, aluminum octahedra, and other constituent layers in their molecular structure. A. True B. False
A. True
Traditional agroecosystems make extensive use of locally available and renewable resources. A. True B. False
A. True
Transpiration is the main process by which plants lose water, but it is necessary to sustain photosynthesis and nutrient transport. (Ch 3) A. True B. False
A. True
Types of tillage that result in more disturbance (e.g. moldboard plowing vs. chisel plowing) result in greater losses of soil carbon into the atmosphere. A. True B. False
A. True
Unwanted deciduous trees and brambles (thorny plants) in pastures can be managed by including one goat for every 10 cows in a rotational grazing system. Keeping the goats inside the fenced area is a separate problem. (Agrofor. Lec.) A. True B. False
A. True
Word choice and selection of sources of information are important indicators of potential bias in a publication, such as Dr. Gliessman's use of the terms "industrial agriculture" and "pesticide treadmill", and his heavy reliance on the publications of Dr. Pimentel as sources of data. (Lec 5) A. True B. False
A. True
Worldwide, the 20% of agricultural land that is irrigated accounts for 40% of total crop production. A. True B. False
A. True
In Fresh (2009), Michael Pollan (author of Omnivore's Dilemma and In Defense of Food) makes exaggerated, false, or misleading statements about _____. Select ALL that apply. A. a lack of government subsidies for growing healthy food B. animal waste from CAFO lagoons being too concentrated for use as fertilizer C. changes in the nutritional values of food since 1950 D. agricultural markets being largely dominated by an oligopoly of a few large companies E. much of our agricultural production going to feed animals, not people F. monocultures increasing vulnerability to disease and pest problems relative to polycultures
A. a lack of government subsidies for growing healthy food B. animal waste from CAFO lagoons being too concentrated for use as fertilizer C. changes in the nutritional values of food since 1950 F. monocultures increasing vulnerability to disease and pest problems relative to polycultures
The relationship between cotton aphids and the fungus Neozygites frensenii and the relationship between tobacco budworm and parasitic wasps like Campoletis sonorensis are examples of ____________. A. a pest species and the predator or parasite that naturally kills and controls populations of that pest, making them useful biocontol agents. B. an agroecosystem. C. a beneficial soil arthropod and the prey species they consume, contributing to nutrient cycling for plants. D. a pest species and the mutualist species that facilitates the pests life cycle, meaning that killing the mutualists is important for controlling the pests.
A. a pest species and the predator or parasite that naturally kills and controls populations of that pest, making them useful biocontol agents.
You would use Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) to ____. (Ch. 17) A. compare yields of different cropping strategies B. detect pest densities in excess of the "tolerable" level C. compare marketing strategies for small vs. large farms D. all of the above E. none of the above
A. compare yields of different cropping strategies
All of the following have contributed to decreasing local control over agriculture, EXCEPT ______. (Ch. 1) A. decreasing ecological stability from traditional farming techniques B. the diminished share of the food dollar going to farmers relative to distributors and marketers. C. the global trend toward large-scale, commodity production D. the increasing uncertainty in commodity prices on the global market
A. decreasing ecological stability from traditional farming techniques
Compared to their wild ancestors, many domesticated crops tend to ____ as a result of directed selection. (Ch 15, Lec 6) (Select all that apply) A. have higher yield B. be variable in crop height C. lack seed dormancy D. have flowers that resist seed shattering E. germinate only after the seedcoat is scratched to allow water uptake
A. have higher yield B. be variable in crop height D. have flowers that resist seed shattering
Rotational grazing using a greater number of smaller paddocks and higher stock density results in ___ than continuous grazing. (Grazing Sys. Lec. and Ch. 19) A. more uniform animal waste distribution B. lower dung pat density (i.e. fewer pats per square meter) C. reduced soil microbial activity D. All of the given answers are correct E. None of the given answers are correct
A. more uniform animal waste distribution
During lecture, we focused on using Dr. Mary Peet's method to estimate the ____ fertilizer contribution of a cover crop because this is most often the nutrient limiting production. A. nitrogen B. phosphorus C. potassium D. sulfur E. all of the given answers commonly limiting production
A. nitrogen
In Teaming with Microbes the authors say that ___ are in control of the soil food web because of what they release into the soil. A. plants B. nematodes C. fungi D. bacteria E. none of the given answers are correct
A. plants
The role of potassium (K) in plants is primarily ___. (Ch. 3) A. regulation of transpiration and many enzymes B. nucleic acids and membranes C. amino acids and all enzymes D. structural E. none are correct
A. regulation of transpiration and many enzymes
In the Wall Street Journal interview with Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, the Nestle CEO suggests which of the following policies for addressing global resource limitations. Choose ALL that apply. A. research into biofuels from inedible sources, such as algae-based fuels B. the creation of a market to control allocation and use of 98.5% of freshwater resource use C. family planning and birth control initiatives to control population growth D. a ban on any conversion of edible food into fuel
A. research into biofuels from inedible sources, such as algae-based fuels B. the creation of a market to control allocation and use of 98.5% of freshwater resource use D. a ban on any conversion of edible food into fuel
The two components of species diversity are _______ and ________. (Select two) (Ch 17) A. species evenness B. taxonomic variability C. genetic diversity D. crop diveristy E. weed diversity F. species richness
A. species evenness F. species richness
During lecture we examined a photograph of cotton roots growing within the soil profile. In the photograph, many roots grew where ____. (Select all correct answers) A. the plow pan was broken by a "ripper" or subsoil tillage device B. irrigation had occurred C. the soil was firmed (compacted) by wheel traffic D. fertilizer was applied E. bulk density was low
A. the plow pan was broken by a "ripper" or subsoil tillage device B. irrigation had occurred D. fertilizer was applied E. bulk density was low
Silvopasture is ____. (Select all correct answers.) A. the practice of planting trees as shelter for grazing livestock B. one form of agroforestry C. the practice of grazing livestock in alleys between rowcrops D. a potentially powerful force for carbon sequestration
A. the practice of planting trees as shelter for grazing livestock B. one form of agroforestry C. the practice of grazing livestock in alleys between rowcrops D. a potentially powerful force for carbon sequestration
Socio economic factors useful in assessing agroecosystem sustainability include ___. (Ch. 23) A. All of these answers are correct B. Reliance on subsidies C. Debt loads and interest rates D. Per unit production costs and returns E. Equitability of return to farmer, laborer and consumer
All of these answers are correct
Match the type of transported soil with the means of its transportation. (Ch. 8) Alluvium Eolian Soil Glacial Soil Colluvium A. Glacier B. Wind C. Gravity D. Water
Alluvium - Water Eolican Soil - Wind Glacial Soil - Glacier Colluvium - Gravity
___ of the domesticated animal breeds are at risk of extinction. (Ch. 15 and Lec. 6) A. About 10% B. 28 to 43% C. 62 to 68% D. More than 75%
B. 28 to 43%
Although there might be as many as 300,000 edible plant species on earth, more than 60% of the world's dietary energy comes from ____ species. (Ch. 15) A. 2 B. 4 C. 10 D. 25 E. None are correct - all are underestimates
B. 4
Plants using the ___ photosynthesis pathway usually perform best under relatively cool temperatures. (Ch. 3) A. CAM B. C3 C. C4 D. POMA E. None are correct
B. C3
The second most valuable globally traded commodity (after oil) is ___. (Ch. 25) A. Sugar B. Coffee C. Chocolate D. Banana
B. Coffee
"Intensive tillage." This would normally be associated with: A. Sustainable Agriculture B. Conventional Agriculture
B. Conventional Agriculture
"Reliance on synthetic or mineral fertilizer." This would normally be associated with: A. Sustainable Agriculture B. Conventional Agriculture
B. Conventional Agriculture
The biomass of dead organisms and fecal matter is broken down by ___ and decomposers. (Ch. 2) A. Autotrophs B. Detritivores C. Political appointees D. Pericardium E. None of these answers are correct
B. Detritivores
In Fresh, Andrew Kimbrell (Executive Director, The Center for Food Safety) said that new data show that "medium-sized organic [production systems] are far more productive than any sized conventional [production systems]"; however, data from recent university studies show that organic systems are usually ____. A. Yield more than twice as much as conventional systems B. Equal to or lower yielding than conventional systems C. Similar to or higher in yield than conventional systems D. Trick question; no data exist that make this comparison
B. Equal to or lower yielding than conventional systems
As the name implies, "no-till" agricultural equipment causes zero disturbance of the soil during planting operations. A. True B. False
B. False
Because animals have access to larger field areas, continuous grazing is among the best methods to minimize soil compaction and environmental problems resulting from concentration of animal wastes in or near water or shade. (Grazing Sys. Lec.) A. True B. False
B. False
Because it spends part of its biogeochemical cycle in gaseous form in the atmosphere and part in soluble form in the soil, nitrogen can be taken up both from the soil by plant roots and from the atmosphere through its stomata via nitrogen fixation. (Ch 8) A. True B. False
B. False
Because of the need for monocultures in agricultural systems to facilitate ease of management, there are very few ways to increase ecological diversity without considerable expense or difficulty. (Ch. 17) A. True B. False
B. False
Burning crop residues can help to control disease and other pests, but all of the nutrients go "up in smoke". (Ch. 8) A. True B. False
B. False
Even where irrigation is practiced on a large scale, agriculture has very little effect on the local hydrology and microclimate. (Ch. 1) A. True B. False
B. False
Human-directed selection is always a threat to crop genetic diversity. A. True B. False
B. False
If a certain agroecosystem experiences outbreaks of a specific pest species following flooding events, the population dynamics of this species would be best defined as cyclical. (Pest Management Lec.) A. True B. False
B. False
If a species is referred to as "glyphosate tolerant", that indicates that glyphosate was once effective in controlling it but has become ineffective with time. (Lec. 13) A. True B. False
B. False
If you only own and manage an urban lawn or garden, you will not contribute much to any nutrient pollution, so it is not useful to do any soil testing when considering how much fertilizer to apply. (Soils Lecture) A. True B. False
B. False
In the Prologue of Jared Diamond's book, "Collapse", he asserts that all instances of past civilizational collapse were, at least in part, caused by the people's impact on their environment. A. True B. False
B. False
In the USA, sewage is an under-utilized form of organic matter and could meet an estimated 20% of annual agricultural phosphorus needs through nutrient recycling. (Lec. 5) A. True B. False
B. False
Money spent on food increasingly has shifted to processing, shipping, and marketing side of the food system, with farmers earning less than one cent (<$0.01) of every food dollar spent. (Ch. 25) A. True B. False
B. False
Most hybrid corn varieties have resistance to a wide range of diseases and insect pests. (NC Organic Grains-Corn) A. True B. False
B. False
Natural rain water (uncontaminated by industrial pollution) has a pH of 7. A. True B. False
B. False
Normally, about 25% (or more) of the biomass at one trophic level is converted to biomass at the next trophic level. (Ch. 2) A. True B. False
B. False
Of the major grains we rely upon in the USA, wheat and soybean are native species, which is part of why they are commonly planted as a rotation in the USA. (Ch. 15) A. True B. False
B. False
Pests and drought are threats to the genetic diversity of crop species. A. True B. False
B. False
Polyploid plants often produce larger seeds or larger fruits than diploids because of inbreeding depression. (Ch. 15) A. True B. False
B. False
Research shows that grazing cattle at high density in many small paddocks, rotating them frequently between paddocks, does not offer the benefits to soil health, nutrient cycling, and forage diversity that are claimed for it. (Grazing Systems Lec.) A. True B. False
B. False
Researchers at Cornell University proved that, while not a threat to humans, genetically engineered Bt corn is a significant threat to the monarch caterpillars (larvae) in the field because its pollen grains collect in lethal concentrations on milkweed, which is its exclusive host plant. (Lec 6) A. True B. False
B. False
The "stale seedbed" technique of weed management requires that the field remain undisturbed by tillage, wait until weeds emerge, and then kill them. (NC Organic Grains) A. True B. False
B. False
The National Organics Program currently permits the use of the antibiotics streptomycin and oxytetracycline, but only to combat fire blight in organic apple and pear trees. A. True B. False
B. False
The USDA map used in lecture identified areas subject to wind erosion as the states of the Great Plains and coastal areas in eastern and southern states. In Missouri, only the southeastern "bootheel" region is identified as being at risk of wind erosion. A. True B. False
B. False
Traditional agroecosystems normally depend (i.e. rely) on externally purchased inputs. (Ch. 23) A. True B. False
B. False
Unfortunately, no genetic varieties (within a crop species) have been identified that are more resistant to wind and lodging. (Ch. 7) A. True B. False
B. False
When using Burton's (5 dimensional) system for comparing weed management tactics, flame weeding would be considered more sustainable (higher score) in terms of energetics than a cover crop. (Lec. 1) A. True B. False
B. False
____ time describes the amount of time for an organism to reproduce. (Pest Mgmt lec.) A. Fecundity B. Generation C. Julian D. Circadian E. None of the above
B. Generation
During the third month after Dr. Kevin Bradley (MU) applied an herbicide manage weedy vegetation in a pasture, the cattle ___. (Agroforestry Lec.) A. Grazed in the treated area only 25% of the time B. Grazed in the treated area over 75% of the time C. Continued to spend roughly equal amounts of time in treated and untreated areas D. None of the above
B. Grazed in the treated area over 75% of the time
One of the clinical effects of chronic exposure to tall fescue endophyte toxicosis in cattle is "summer slump". Which of the following describes the symptoms of "summer slump"? (Agroforestry lecture) A. Lameness, inflammation of the coronary band, and necrosis of ears and limbs B. Hyperthermia, nervous behavior, and decreased feed consumption and milk production C. Diarrhea, dehydration, and dermatological infections D. None of the above
B. Hyperthermia, nervous behavior, and decreased feed consumption and milk production
Except for legume species (mostly members of the Fabiaceae family), most plants obtain ___ from the soil solution. (Ch. 3) A. K B. N C. P D. All of the above E. Both A and B
B. N
"Almost all plant residues buried soon after crop harvest." Would normally be associated with: A. Good soil health B. Poor soil health
B. Poor soil health
Which of the following compact soil (decreasing infiltration, increasing runoff)? Choose all that apply. (Soils Lecture) A. Increases in percent soil organic matter B. Pressure from vehicle traffic, such as tractors, combines, and trucks C. Crop root system development D. Urban development -- topsoil removal, building construction, and impermeable surfaces E. Pressure from hoof traffic -- cattle grazing and movement between paddocks F. Pressure from foot traffic on lawns, paths, or around campsites. G. Aggregation of soil particles by microorganisms
B. Pressure from vehicle traffic, such as tractors, combines, and trucks D. Urban development -- topsoil removal, building construction, and impermeable surfaces E. Pressure from hoof traffic -- cattle grazing and movement between paddocks F. Pressure from foot traffic on lawns, paths, or around campsites.
Though there is no single, agreed upon set of factors that should be used to create a metric of sustainability, Drs. Burton and Gliessman both discussed _____ as a useful tool for assessing agroecosystem sustainability based on several dimensions (as opposed to polarizing, mono-dimensional analyses). (Ch 23, Lec 2) A. a line graph B. an amoeba-type diagram C. a soil texture pyramid D. a pie chart
B. an amoeba-type diagram
All of the following practices can contribute to increasing soil organic matter except A. crop rotation B. burning crop residues C. cover crops D. reduced tillage intensity E. application of manure, compost, or sewage
B. burning crop residues
According to the Hoyt (2005) data shared during lecture, corn yields were highest at most levels of N fertilization following a ___. (Cover Crop Lec.) A. bare soil fallow B. hairy vetch cover crop C. rye cover crop D. Both A and B E. None of the above
B. hairy vetch cover crop
Total annual meat consumption in North America has not changed much since 1974. Total annual meat consumption in Asia has ___ since 1974. A. decreased B. more than tripled C. increased by about 50% D. nearly doubled E. also not changed much
B. more than tripled?
Decomposition of corn crop residues (the stems and leaves that are left in the field) can return some minerals (K in particular) to the soil. The residues are also an important source of ___. (Ch. 8) A. nitrogen B. organic matter C. disease suppression D. all of the above E. both B and C
B. organic matter
The Missouri "bootheel" (southeastern counties) is known for high productivity of crops, but Missouri's ___ counties have the highest hay and cattle production. A. southwestern B. northwestern C. northeastern D. southeastern
B. southwestern
In Fresh, Michael Pollan asserts that many of the problems for producers and consumers in the prevailing food system in America is due to ________. A. the lack of organization and consistency between producers B. the consolidation of control from seeds to processing of products by a few, large companies, such as Cargill and ADM. C. the monopoly Monsanto has in high fructose corn syrup. D. None of the above
B. the consolidation of control from seeds to processing of products by a few, large companies, such as Cargill and ADM.
Match the estimated number of organisms per gram of soil with the correct class of organisms. Bacteria Fungi Algae and Protozoa Nematoda A. 10 to 100 B. 100,000,000 to 1,000,000,000 C. 100,000 to 1,000,000 D. 10,000 to 100,000
Bacteria - 100,000,000 to 1,000,000,000 Fungi - 100,000 to 1,000,000 Algae and Protozoa - 10,000 to 100,000 Nematoda - 10 to 100
A plant with which of the following genotypes will exhibit heterosis or hybrid vigor? (Each letter represents a different gene; different alleles are represented by upper and lower case.) A. AABBCCDD B. aabbccdd C. AaBbCcDd D. AAbbCCdd
C. AaBbCcDd
"Resilience" is described in the Agroecology text book as "the ability of a community or ecosystem to reestablish its basic structure and functioning after disturbance and succession". Row crop agroecosystems are considered to have _______ resilience as compared to natural communities. (Ch 2) A. Greater B. Similar C. Lesser D. None of the above - row crop systems are not agroecosystems.
C. Lesser
According to Gliessman, the prevailing modern agricultural system is not sustainable. All of the following are reasons he gives for our unsustainability EXCEPT ______. (Ch 1) A. Damage to hydrological system caused by excessive groundwater use and nutrient pollution B. Dependence on non-renewable inputs like inorganic fertilizer and antibiotics C. Loss of genetic diversity due to excessive reliance on traditional, local crop varieties D. Loss of local control over agricultural production
C. Loss of genetic diversity due to excessive reliance on traditional, local crop varieties
Although photosynthesis has an efficiency of energy capture of about 20%, the process of converting photosynthate into plant biomass is ___. (Ch. 3) A. Highly efficient (>80%) B. Moderately efficient (40-60%) C. Low in efficiency (<10%)
C. Low in efficiency (<10%)
Compared to no till, conventionally tilled soils have runoff that is ___. (soil cons. lecture) Note: Low water quality means that the water contains suspended sediment, nutrients and/or bacteria. A. Much lower in quantity and much lower in quality B. Much lower in quantity and much higher in quality C. Much greater in quantity and much lower in quality D. Much greater in quantity and much higher in quality E. Similar in quantity and quality
C. Much greater in quantity and much lower in quality
According to the soil texture pyramid below, how would one classify a soil that is 70% silt, 20% clay, and 10% sand? A. Sandy Loam B. Loamy Sand C. Silt Loam D. Silty Clay Loam
C. Silt Loam
Compost produced through the action of worms is called "___" and results in castings that are high in N and P. (Ch. 8) A. Annelid composting B. Gusano-posting C. Vermicomposting D. None of the above
C. Vermicomposting
In the assigned MU extension guide G9107, we learned that the material most commonly used to adjust soil pH to a higher level is ___. A. iron sulfide B. calcium magnesium carbonate C. calcium carbonate D. calcium oxide E. calcium hydroxide
C. calcium carbonate
Toxicity associated with consuming tall fescue forage or seeds, which affects livestock and wildlife (especially during cold or hot seasons), is caused by ____. (Agrofor. Lec.) A. consumption of the toxic plant leaves B. fecal bacteria from past animal excrement C. natural chemicals produced by fungi that are concentrated in seeds D. plant/environment interactions E. None of the given answers are correct
C. natural chemicals produced by fungi that are concentrated in seeds
When grain is harvested from a field, ___ amounts of N, P and K are removed. (Lec. 5) A. insignificant B. small C. significant D. both A and B
C. significant
Joel Salatin said his goal in managing his operation is to ____. (Fresh the movie, 2009) A. manage the farm like his grandparents did B. maximize production and efficiency C. use only "time-tested" technologies D. "marry" some new technologies with knowledge and experience E. none of these answers are correct
D. "marry" some new technologies with knowledge and experience
One plant with the genotype 'Tt' for a certain gene is crossed with a plant that also has the genotype 'Tt', 'T' being the dominant allele and 't' being the recessive allele. What genotypes will the offspring have, and in what ratios? A. 2 TT, 2Tt B. 4 Tt C. 2 TT, 1 Tt, 1 tt D. 1 TT, 2 Tt, 1tt E. This cross would not produce viable offspring.
D. 1 TT, 2 Tt, 1tt
Agriculture accounts for about ___ % of global water use. Most of this water is used to irrigate crops. (Ch. 1) A. 10 B. 30 C. 50 D. 70 E. None of the Above
D. 70
___ are drawbacks (undesirable characteristics) associated with the surface application of manures. (Ch. 8) A. Odor B. Insects C. Nitrogen loss through ammonification D. All are correct E. Both A and B
D. All are correct
Agroforestry can bring benefits of diversity and soil conservation by using ___. (Agrofor. Lec.) A. Upland buffers B. Windbreaks C. Alleycropping D. All of the above E. None of the above
D. All of the above
Allelopathy ____. (Cover Crop Lec.) A. Is an effect of one species on another through chemicals B. Can be used to suppress the germination and growth of weeds C. Effectiveness has been observed to change with the plant's stage of growth D. All of the above E. Both A and B
D. All of the above
Examples of animal integration with crop systems include ___. (Ch. 19) A. Agroforestry and livestock B. Aquaculture and crop production C. Crop rotations with a grazed forage phase D. All of the above E. Both A and C
D. All of the above
Intercropping rows of ___ is often used as an alternative to planting permanent windbreaks of trees or shrubs. (Ch. 7) A. corn B. sunflower C. sorghum D. all of the above E. none of the above
D. all of the above
Humus is _______. (Soil Biology Lecture) A. a word for highly stabilized forms of organic matter in soil. B. composed of very large, complex, many-branching molecules known as humic and fulvic acids. C. important to soil nutrient retention and prevention of heavy metal toxicity. D. All of the above
D. All of the above
Red color in soil can be an indication of _________. (Ch. 8) A. red-colored parent material B. a high concentration of iron oxides C. good aeration and drainage D. All of the above
D. All of the above
When people living in a particular area mostly eat food that is grown or raised locally, they usually___. (Ch. 25) A. shift the focus of their diets B. eat less of foods that cannot be grown locally C. eat more of what is "in-season" D. All of the above E. Both A and B
D. All of the above
____ has been observed to occur naturally. (Lec. 6) A. Hybridization between closely related plant species B. Change in plant ploidy level C. Exchange of DNA between different kingdoms of organisms (e.g. bacteria and plants) D. All of the above E. None of the above
D. All of the above
Some methods of reducing soil erosion include ___. A. alternating strips of permanent grass and annual row-crops on a slope B. tilling a clayey soil to form ridges perpendicular to the direction of the prevailing wind. C. installation of terraces to slow water movement down a slope D. All of the above are correct answers
D. All of the above are correct answers
Composted manures normally will contain less ____ than the raw manure. (Lec. 6) A. fecal bacteria B. nitrogen C. phosphorus D. Both A and B E. Both A and C
D. Both A and B
When diagnosing crop injury, one should keep in mind that ____ problems usually cause injury to all of the crop plants in the affected area. (MU Ext G4050) A. Insect B. Disease C. Herbicide D. Both A and B E. Both B and C
D. Both A and B
Within organic insect pest management, crop rotation is usually considered the ___. (NC Organic guide - Corn) A. Lowest cost B. Most powerful C. Least powerful D. Both A and B E. Both A and C
D. Both A and B
Dung beetles are valuable for incorporating cattle waste back into the soil. Which of the following considerations should be taken when applying pesticides for cattle parasites and flies to minimize damage to dung beetle populations. (Grazing systems lecture) A. Select a compound known to do less damage to the "off-target" dung beetles, such as Moxidectin instead of Ivermectin. B. Time the application of the pesticide so it does not coincide with dung beetle reproduction. C. Consider the average stock density of cattle in the field where the pesticide is being applied. D. Both A and B are important considerations E. Both B and C are important considerations
D. Both A and B are important considerations
The ability of soil to hold and buffer nutrient ions (i.e. a measure of soil fertility) is measured by ___. (Ch. 8) A. Eructation Capacity (EC) B. pH C. Calcification Capacity (CC) D. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) E. None of the given answers are correct
D. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)
Among common domesticated livestock, manure from ____ contains the lowest level of water, which makes it more economical to transport for use as a fertilizer. (Lec. 6) A. Sheep B. Dairy Cattle C. Horses D. Chickens E. Beef Cattle
D. Chickens
Price considerations, the "specialization" of farming operations, convenience, and reliability have strongly encouraged the use of fertilizers from _______. (Lecture on Nutrient Sources and Cycling) A. GMO-derived sources B. Mined and "natural gas derived" sources C. Manure and biosolids D. Cover crops and legumes
D. Cover crops and legumes
Excessive growth of plants and algae in a lake that is the result of nutrient enrichment (e.g. from effluent or fertilizer) is termed ___. (Ch. 1) A. Autotrophic conditions B. Heterotrophic conditions C. Turbidity D. Eutrophication E. Eukaryotic eruption
D. Eutrophication
Under US federal law, all of the following are true about patented GMO crop varieties except _____. (Lec 6) A. Only the developer can sell seed under the trade name. B. The use of seed accidentally obtained without purchase of a license is illegal. C. Growers cannot replant harvested seed. D. Growers may cross-breed the variety, but cannot sell the resulting seed.
D. Growers may cross-breed the variety, but cannot sell the resulting seed.
___ clay minerals have more surface area for the exchange of nutrient ions when hydrated. A. Octohedral cations B. Moderately expansive C. Nonexpansive D. Highly expansive
D. Highly expansive
All of the following statements about the use of roller-crimpers to kill cover crops are true except... (Cover Crops Lec.) A. Roller-crimping works by breaking the cover crop stems in multiple places, avoiding the need for herbicide application. B. oller-crimping is most effective early in the morning. C. Roller-crimping can potentially create residue cover of 85% or more for the growing season. D. It is vital to allow one week between roller-crimping and planting.
D. It is vital to allow one week between roller-crimping and planting.
The result of genetic information of an individual interacting with the environment is called its ____. (Ch. 15) A. Alphatype B. None of the given answers are correct C. Genotype D. Phenotype E. Betatype
D. Phenotype
Soil test reports revealed extremely high levels of phosphorus in Dr. Burton's bottom field. Which of the following was the cause of the excessive phosphorus? (Soil Fertility Lecture) A. The underlying parent material from which the soil formed is naturally rich in mineral phosphorus deposits. B. The previous owner grazed too many cattle on field too long without rotating them, leading to excess manure on the site. C. Dust that blew off of the gravel driveway settled onto the field, contributing a lot of phosphorus. D. The previous owner allowed a nearby dairy operation apply a large amount of manure from a waste lagoon onto the field.
D. The previous owner allowed a nearby dairy operation apply a large amount of manure from a waste lagoon onto the field.
Lawn clippings and soil from edging become sources of organic contaminants and nutrients in untreated storm runoff. They should be ____. (Soil Con. Lecture) A. swept back into the lawn B. blown back into the lawn C. composted D. all of the above are acceptable
D. all of the above are acceptable
One important trait of a natural ecosystem is overall stability in spite of changes or perturbations within the system. This concept is known in ecology as __________. (Ch 2) A. biogeochemical cycling B. trophic structure C. climax community D. dynamic equilibrium
D. dynamic equilibrium
Soils differ in the amount of water they hold at ____ , which is the moisture left in the soil after the downward pull of gravity has pulled away "gravitational water". (Ch. 9) A. capillary water B. permanent wilting point C. ponding D. field capacity E. none of the given answers are correct
D. field capacity
Erle Ellis conducted studies of traditional agro-ecosystems in China and observed that ___ was likely the limiting factor on productivity. (Ch. 23) A. money for improved seed varieties B. availability of field labor C. sunlight (i.e. clouds) D. nitrogen as a nutrient E. all of these answers are correct
D. nitrogen as a nutrient
After land is put into cultivation (i.e. tilled), the original soil organic matter level begins to decline. Resulting changes include ____. (Ch. 8) A. Loss of structure B. Increase in bulk density C. Decrease in soil porosity D. Decrease in biological activity E. All of the above
E. All of the above
Gliessman argues that people can reduce the per capita "foodprint" (an estimate of eating habits like "carbon footprint" is an estimate of fuel use) by following principles such as ___.(Ch. 25) A. "eat lower on the food chain" B. "never eat stuff from cows" C. "eat seasonal" D. Both A and B E. Both A and C
E. Both A and C
Phosphorus is an important component of structures in plant and animal cells, including __. (Ch. 3 and Lec. 6) A. membranes B. chlorophyll C. ATP D. All of the above E. Both A and C
E. Both A and C
____ results in lower runoff and erosion. (soil cons. lecture) A. Increasing vegetative cover B. Decreasing vegetative cover C. Increasing residue cover D. Decreasing residue cover E. Both A and C
E. Both A and C
Personal choices and cultural and economic behavior can be important factors in a sustainable food system. One personal choice that leads to a more sustainable food system is eating from a shorter supply chain. Which of the following describes the shortest supply chain? A. Shopping for food at the supermarket distributed by national companies B. Shopping specifically for local products from the supermarket C. Shopping for food at the Farmers Market D. Joining the CSA of a local farmer E. Eating what you're own family's farm produces, or sharing in the produce of a community garden you manage together with your neighborhood
E. Eating what you're own family's farm produces, or sharing in the produce of a community garden you manage together with your neighborhood
All of the following are among Dr. Burton's five dimensions of sustainability, except ________. (Lec. 2/ Ch. 23) A. Energetic B. Economic C. Social D. Ecological E. Geological
E. Geological
The decreased yield of a crop caused by a crop pest is best explained by the ecological concept of ______. (Ch 2) A. Mutualism B. Succession C. Predation D. Competition E. Herbivory
E. Herbivory
___ is regarded as the "Father of soil conservation" in the USA. A. Norman Borlaug B. John Howard Hughes C. John Q. Hammons D. Jethro Tull E. Hugh Hammond Bennett
E. Hugh Hammond Bennett
All of the following are benefits of a complete soil food web EXCEPT... (Lec. 8) A. Decomposition of organic matter B. Pest control via predation C. Disease supression D. Alleviation of compaction E. None. All of the answers given ARE benefits provided by a complete soil food web
E. None. All of the answers given ARE benefits provided by a complete soil food web
_____ is regarded as the "man who saved a billion people" and the "father of the green revolution". (Lec. 4) A. None of these answers are correct B. Norman Bates C. Norman Schwarzkopf D. Norman Kremer E. Norman Borlaug
E. Norman Borlaug
____ collected seed from canola plants near the road that survived an application of Roundup herbicide, and later re-planted it. He lost a high profile court case because he did not have a right to keep and use Monsanto's patented intellectual property -- even if he didn't buy the seeds. A. Norman Borlaug B. Don Huber C. Mark Lynas D. Moe Parr E. Percy Schmeiser
E. Percy Schmeiser
Except for "Bordeaux mixture" (used on grapes in France since the 1880s), chemical pesticides were touted as new weapons against pests after ____, so our historical experience with them amounts to about ____. (Ch. 1) A. World War I; 90 years B. None of the given answers are correct C. 1900; 115 years D. Vietnam War; 35 years E. Wold War II; 70 years
E. Wold War II; 70 years
Thomas Malthus, an Anglican rector with a good mind for mathematics, became concerned about the inevitability of widespread human misery. In a 1798 essay, he forecast that widespread starvation and conflict would be the result of food production increasing ________ while human reproduction increased ________. (Lec. 3) A. logarithmically; linearly B. geometrically, linearly C. None of these answers are correct D. linearly; arithmetically E. linearly, exponentially
E. linearly, exponentially
Order the following divisions of soil water from most (1) to least (4) tightly held to soil particles. (Ch 9) Gravitational Water Water of Hydration Easily Available Water Hygroscopic Water
Water of Hydration Hygroscopic Water Easily Available Water Gravitational Water