Biotic factors - SS2 Agriculture Lesson Note

Biotic factors are living organisms that can significantly impact agricultural production. 

Predators: Predators in agriculture can be both beneficial and harmful. Beneficial predators like ladybugs and spiders eat crop-damaging pests, helping to control their populations. However, harmful predators, like certain birds or rodents, can directly damage crops by feeding on them.

 

Parasites: Parasites are organisms that live on or within another organism, often causing harm. In agriculture, this can refer to plants or animals that are infected by parasites, leading to reduced crop yields or livestock productivity. For example, ticks on cattle can be a parasitic issue.

 

Soil Microorganisms: Soil is teeming with microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. While many of these microorganisms are essential for nutrient cycling and plant growth, some can be harmful. Harmful soil pathogens, for instance, can cause diseases in plants, impacting crop health.

 

Pests: Pests are perhaps the most well-known biotic factor affecting agriculture. These are insects, rodents, or other organisms that feed on crops, leading to reduced yield and quality. Common agricultural pests include aphids, caterpillars, and rodents.

 

Disease Organisms: Just as humans can get sick, plants and animals in agriculture can suffer from diseases caused by various organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These diseases can lead to crop failure or livestock health issues.

 

Managing these biotic factors is crucial for successful agriculture. Farmers use various methods, including pesticides, biological control (introducing beneficial predators), and crop rotation, to mitigate the negative effects of these factors and ensure healthy and productive farming systems.