NABTEB GCE 2024 Agric Science Obj & Essay Answers

NABTEB GCE 2024 AGRIC SCIENCE Obj & Essays Answers

NABTEB AGRIC-OBJ
01-10: CADBCABDAB
11-20: CBAAACBDAA
21-30: DACDCDCCCA
31-40: DACDBCCDDC
41-50: CDCADBBDCA

COMPLETED

NABTEB GCE 2024 AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE ANSWERS

_ANSWER FIVE QUESTIONS ONLY_

(1ai)
Agricultural development refers to the process of improving the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of agricultural practices through the adoption of modern technologies, techniques, and policies to meet the increasing demand for food and other agricultural products.

(1aii)
(PICK FOUR ONLY)
(i) Residential purposes
(ii) Commercial buildings
(iii) Industrial facilities
(iv) Transportation infrastructure
(v) Recreational spaces
(vi) Educational institutions
(vii) Religious sites
(viii) Conservation and wildlife reserves

(1bi)
=MEASURING TAPE=
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) Measuring horizontal distances.
(ii) Measuring vertical heights.
(iii) Setting out dimensions for construction.
(iv) Estimating perimeter or boundaries.
(v) Verifying dimensions during construction.

(1bii)
=THEODOLITE=
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) Measuring horizontal angles.
(ii) Measuring vertical angles.
(iii) Determining elevations.
(iv) Aligning points in a straight line.
(v) Surveying large areas with high precision.

(1biii)
RANGING POLE:
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) Marking survey points on the ground.
(ii) Establishing straight lines for alignment.
(iii) Serving as a reference for leveling.
(iv) Indicating direction for measurements.
(v) Acting as sighting aids in chain surveying.

(1ci)
A farmstead is the area of a farm where the main buildings, such as the farmhouse, barns, storage facilities, and other structures, are located. It serves as the operational center for farm activities, housing both residential and agricultural functions.

(1cii)
(PICK THREE ONLY)
(i) Efficient use of space: Proper planning ensures optimal utilization of available land for different purposes, such as residential areas, livestock housing, crop storage, and machinery, reducing congestion and wastage.

(ii) Enhanced productivity: A well-organized layout minimizes time and energy spent on moving between various sections of the farm, allowing for smoother operations and increased efficiency.

(iii) Better resource management: Farmstead planning allows for the proper allocation and use of resources like water, electricity, and labor, ensuring minimal wastage and cost savings.

(iv) Environmental sustainability: Proper planning helps prevent soil erosion, waterlogging, and pollution by incorporating environmentally friendly practices such as waste management and drainage systems.

(v) Improved safety: Organizing farmstead facilities reduces risks of accidents by ensuring that hazardous areas, such as chemical storage and machinery, are separated from residential and livestock areas.

(vi) Long-term growth: Thoughtful planning accommodates future expansion or changes, such as the addition of new buildings, infrastructure, or technologies, without disrupting current operations.
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(2ai)
Gravitational water: This is the water that moves freely through the soil due to gravity, typically found in the large pores or spaces between soil particles. It is usually present after heavy rainfall or irrigation and drains away quickly, making it unavailable to plants.

(2aii)
Capillary water: This is the water held in the small pores of the soil by surface tension. It is the main source of water for plants as it is available for uptake by their roots. Capillary water moves in all directions within the soil and remains accessible until the soil starts to dry out.

(2aiii)
Hygroscopic water: This is the thin layer of water that forms around soil particles due to adhesion. It is tightly bound to the soil particles and cannot be absorbed by plant roots. Hygroscopic water is considered unavailable for plant use, as it requires high energy to be removed.

(2b)
(PICK FOUR ONLY)
(i) Promotes vegetative growth: Nitrogen is a key component of amino acids and proteins, essential for the development of leaves, stems, and overall vegetative growth.

(ii) Essential for photosynthesis: Nitrogen is a critical component of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for photosynthesis, enabling plants to convert sunlight into energy.

(iii) Improves root development: Adequate nitrogen encourages healthy root development, allowing plants to absorb more nutrients and water from the soil.

(iv) Enhances protein synthesis: Nitrogen is a fundamental element in the synthesis of proteins, which are essential for cell growth, enzyme function, and overall plant development.

(v) Supports flowering and fruiting: Nitrogen helps in the production of flowers and fruits by promoting overall plant health and ensuring proper nutrient uptake during reproductive growth stages.

(vi) Increases crop yield: Sufficient nitrogen increases plant biomass and yield, particularly in crops such as cereals, legumes, and vegetables.

(vii) Stimulates cell division: Nitrogen is involved in the formation of nucleic acids, which play a role in cell division, contributing to faster growth and development.

(viii) Improves disease resistance: Healthy plants with adequate nitrogen are better able to resist diseases and environmental stress, leading to improved crop health and productivity.

(2ci)
An organic fertilizer is a natural substance derived from plant or animal materials, such as manure, compost, or crop residues, used to provide nutrients to plants. It enriches the soil and promotes healthy plant growth by adding organic matter.

(2cii)
(PICK THREE ONLY)
(i) Broadcasting
(ii) Side dressing
(iii) Band application
(iv) Foliar application
(v) Drip irrigation
(vi) Liquid application
(vii) Fertilizer injection
(viii) Pit application
===========================

(3ai)
The causal organism of blackpod disease of cocoa is Phytophthora palmivora or Phytophthora megakarya.

(3aii)
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) Blackening of pods: The infected cocoa pods turn black or dark brown, usually starting at the point of infection. This discoloration spreads rapidly, resulting in rotting.

(ii) Water-soaked lesions: Initial infection often presents as small, water-soaked spots on the pods, which grow larger and darker as the disease progresses.

(iii) Soft, mushy texture: The infected cocoa pods become soft and mushy due to the decay of the inner tissues, making the pods lose their firmness.

(iv) Fungal growth: Infected pods may show fungal growth, often appearing as a white, cotton-like mass on the surface, especially during high humidity.

(v) Reduced pod development: Blackpod disease can stunt the growth of cocoa pods, causing them to abort or fail to mature properly, resulting in lower yields.

(3aiii)
The mode of transmission of blackpod disease of cocoa is primarily through the spread of Phytophthora spores, which are carried by water, rain, wind, and human activities.

(3bi)
Cultural practices in crop production refer to the various management techniques and activities that farmers use to enhance the growth and development of crops.

(3bii)
(PICK SIX ONLY)
(i) Land preparation
(ii) Sowing or planting
(iii) Crop rotation
(iv) Mulching
(v) Weeding
(vi) Irrigation
(vii) Fertilizer application
(viii) Pruning
(ix) Staking or support
(x) Pest and disease control

(3c)
(PICK FOUR ONLY)
(i) Nitrogen fixation: Cowpea has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil through its root nodules, improving soil fertility for subsequent crops.

(ii) Weed suppression: The dense growth of cowpea can help suppress weeds by shading the soil and reducing weed germination and growth.

(iii) Pest control: Cowpea can serve as a trap crop, attracting pests away from the main crop, thereby reducing pest pressure on more valuable crops.

(iv) Soil erosion control: The roots of cowpea help bind the soil, preventing erosion caused by wind or water, especially in areas with sloping land.

(v) Increased yield stability: Intercropping with cowpea can help maintain or increase overall farm productivity by diversifying the crops and reducing the risks of crop failure.

(vi) Improved water use efficiency: Cowpea’s deep root system allows it to access water from deeper soil layers, which can help conserve water for the other crops in the system.

(vii) Income diversification: Cowpea is a marketable crop, providing the farmer with an additional source of income, especially in areas where it is in demand.

(viii) Soil structure improvement: The roots of cowpea can help improve soil structure by enhancing soil aggregation and reducing compaction, leading to better root penetration for all crops.
===========================

(4ai)
Balanced ration: A balanced ration refers to a carefully formulated mixture of different feed ingredients that provides all the essential nutrients in the right proportions required by an animal for growth, maintenance, reproduction, and overall health. It ensures that animals receive adequate energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

(4aii)
Supplemental feed: Supplemental feed is additional feed given to animals to provide nutrients that may be lacking in their primary diet. It helps to enhance the nutritional value of the animal’s overall diet, particularly when certain essential nutrients are deficient in the main feed.

(4aiii)
Malnutrition: Malnutrition in animals occurs when there is an imbalance or deficiency in their diet, leading to inadequate intake of essential nutrients, resulting in poor health, stunted growth, decreased productivity, or even disease.

(4aiv)
Feed stuff: Feed stuff refers to any material or ingredient used in the formulation of animal feed. It includes various types of plant and animal-based materials, such as grains, forages, by-products, and supplements, that provide the necessary nutrients for animal nutrition.

(4b)
(PICK FOUR ONLY)
(i) Hydration: Water is essential for maintaining the hydration of farm animals, which is crucial for their overall health and bodily functions, including circulation and digestion.

(ii) Temperature regulation: Water helps in regulating body temperature by enabling processes such as sweating and panting, which cool the body in hot conditions.

(iii) Digestion: Water aids in the breakdown of food and the movement of nutrients through the digestive system, making it easier for animals to absorb essential nutrients.

(iv) Excretion: Water is necessary for the removal of waste products from the body through urine, feces, and sweat, ensuring proper waste management and preventing toxin buildup.

(v) Transport of nutrients: Water acts as a carrier for nutrients, hormones, and enzymes, facilitating their movement throughout the animal’s body and supporting metabolic processes.

(vi) Joint lubrication: Water helps lubricate the joints, reducing friction and supporting smooth, efficient movement, which is important for mobility and preventing joint stiffness or injury.

(vii) Milk production: In lactating animals, water is vital for milk production, as large amounts of water are required to produce milk, supporting the overall reproductive health of the animal.

(viii) Cellular function: Water is essential for maintaining cell structure and function, enabling metabolic activities within cells, promoting growth, and supporting immune responses in farm animals.

(4c)
(PICK SIX ONLY)
(i) Omnivorous diet: Pigs are omnivores, meaning they can eat both plant and animal-based foods, allowing them to adapt to a wide variety of diets.

(ii) Highly intelligent: Pigs are known for their intelligence, displaying problem-solving abilities and the capacity to learn new tasks quickly, often considered more intelligent than dogs.

(iii) Good sense of smell: Pigs have an excellent sense of smell, which they use to search for food, making them valuable for tasks like truffle hunting.

(iv) Social animals: Pigs are social creatures and often prefer living in groups, forming close bonds with other pigs, especially in a domestic setting.

(v) High reproductive rate: Pigs have a high reproductive rate, with a litter size ranging from eight to twelve piglets, allowing for rapid population growth.

(vi) Fast growth rate: Pigs grow rapidly, reaching market weight in a relatively short time compared to other livestock species.

(vii) Adaptable to different environments: Pigs can thrive in various environments, from temperate climates to more tropical settings, as long as they have access to food, water, and shelter.

(viii) Limited sweat glands: Pigs have very few sweat glands, so they are prone to heat stress. They often seek mud or water to cool off.

(ix) Strong sense of hearing: Pigs have a keen sense of hearing, which allows them to be aware of their surroundings and respond to sounds even at a distance.

(x) Efficient feed converters: Pigs are efficient at converting feed into body mass, which makes them a cost-effective animal for meat production.
===========================

(5ai)
A profit and loss account is a financial statement that summarizes the revenues, costs, and expenses incurred by a business during a specific period, typically a fiscal quarter or year.

(5aii)
(i) Asset: In an agricultural enterprise, an asset refers to any resource or property owned by the business that is expected to provide future economic benefits. This can include land, equipment, livestock, or crops.

(ii) Network: A network in an agricultural enterprise refers to the system of relationships, connections, or partnerships that the business has with suppliers, customers, other farmers, and organizations. A well-established network can help improve business opportunities and access to resources.

(iii) Revenue: Revenue is the income generated by an agricultural enterprise from the sale of goods or services, such as the sale of crops, livestock, or farm products. It is the total amount of money received before deducting expenses.

(iv) Liability: A liability is an obligation or debt that an agricultural enterprise owes to others, such as loans, bills, or outstanding payments for goods and services. It represents what the business must pay in the future.

(5b)
Labour in agricultural production refers to the human effort, both physical and mental, applied in the process of farming and managing agricultural activities. It includes tasks such as planting, tending crops, harvesting, caring for livestock, managing farm machinery, and carrying out administrative functions.

(5c)
(i) Group discussion: A group discussion is an agricultural extension teaching method where a group of farmers or participants engage in a guided conversation about a specific agricultural topic. It encourages the exchange of ideas, experiences, and solutions, allowing for collaborative learning and problem-solving.

(ii) Office calls: Office calls involve extension workers visiting farmers at their farms or homes to provide individualized advice, demonstrations, and consultations. This method allows for personalized interaction and tailored recommendations based on the specific needs of the farm or farmer.

(iii) Use of projected materials: This teaching method involves the use of visual aids, such as slides, videos, or computer projections, to present information to a group. It helps in illustrating complex ideas, making learning more engaging and effective, especially for visual learners.
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(6a)
(PICK EIGHT ONLY)
(i) Regular water quality testing: Periodically test the pond water for parameters such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and ammonia levels to ensure a healthy environment for the fish.

(ii) Proper stocking density: Avoid overcrowding the fish pond by maintaining an appropriate number of fish per unit area. This helps to reduce stress and competition for food and oxygen.

(iii) Adequate aeration: Use aerators or fountains to ensure the pond has sufficient oxygen for the fish, particularly in deeper ponds or during hot weather.

(iv) Cleaning and removing debris: Regularly remove any organic matter, such as dead plants, fallen leaves, or uneaten food, to prevent the buildup of harmful substances like ammonia or nitrates.

(v) Pond fertilization: Apply fertilizers to promote the growth of natural food for the fish, such as plankton and algae, which serve as a food source for the fish.

(vi) Control of aquatic weeds: Manage the growth of unwanted aquatic plants that can deplete oxygen and block sunlight, ensuring the fish have adequate space and resources.

(vii) Regular feeding: Feed the fish with appropriate commercial or homemade feeds in controlled amounts to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to water pollution.

(viii) Disease prevention and management: Monitor fish health regularly, and implement preventive measures like vaccination or treatment of any diseases to reduce the risk of outbreaks.

(ix) Pond structure maintenance: Ensure that the pond’s physical structure, including embankments and inlets, is secure and intact to prevent water loss, erosion, or contamination.

(x) Water exchange or replenishment: Regularly replace a portion of the pond water with fresh water to maintain water quality and prevent the accumulation of waste.

(xi) Pond depth management: Maintain appropriate pond depth to ensure adequate space for fish to move and sufficient water volume for temperature regulation and oxygen exchange.

(xii) Harvesting at the right time: Monitor the growth of fish and harvest them at the appropriate size and age to prevent overcrowding, overgrowth, or loss of product quality.

(6b)
(PICK SIX ONLY)
(i) Netting: This method involves using a large net to catch fish from the pond. It is commonly used for harvesting fish in large quantities, and it can be done using different types of nets such as seine or gill nets.

(ii) Hook and line: This method uses a fishing rod, reel, and baited hook to catch fish individually. It is more labor-intensive and is typically used for catching larger fish or those in ponds with fewer fish.

(iii) Trapping: Fish traps are set in the pond to capture fish. The traps are usually designed to allow fish to enter but prevent them from escaping, making it easier to harvest them.

(iv) Drainage: This involves draining the water from the pond using a pump or opening a drain. The fish are then collected as they are left in the shallow water or captured in smaller holding areas.

(v) Fish scooping: A large scoop or hand net is used to catch fish, especially in smaller ponds or when the fish are concentrated in one area, making them easier to harvest.

(vi) Purse seining: This method involves using a large circular net, which is lowered into the pond and pulled together to trap fish in a concentrated area, allowing for a large-scale harvest.

(vii) Electro-fishing: This technique uses electricity to stun fish temporarily, making it easier to catch them using nets or by hand. It is commonly used for research purposes or in fish management.

(viii) By hand: For smaller ponds or specific species, fish can be harvested manually by hand, typically when the number of fish is manageable, and the fish are accessible.

(ix) Basket trapping: Baskets or cages are placed in the pond, and fish enter them but cannot escape. This is a passive method for harvesting fish without the need for active catching.

(x) Harvesting by grading: This involves sorting fish by size, where smaller fish are left in the pond to grow, and larger fish are harvested. This method helps in maintaining a balanced fish population in the pond.

(6c)
=LIGHT BREEDS OF POULTRY BIRDS=
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) White Leghorn
(ii) Rhode Island Red
(iii) Australorp
(iv) Ancona
(v) Sussex

=HEAVY BREEDS OF POULTRY BIRDS=
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) Plymouth Rock
(ii) Orpington
(iii) Jersey Giant
(iv) Brahma
(v) Langshan
===========================

(7a)
Apiculture is the practice of beekeeping, which involves the management and care of honeyb