Read the following passage and answer the item that follows. Your answer to this item should be based on the…
Read the following passage and answer the item that follows. Your answer to this item should be based on the passage only.
Passage:
At the heart of agroecology is the idea that agroecosystems should mimic the biodiversity levels and functioning of natural ecosystems. Such agricultural mimics, like their natural models, can be productive, pest-resistant, nutrient conserving, and resilient to shocks and stresses. In ecosystems there is no 'waste', nutrients are recycled indefinitely. Agroecology aims at closing nutrient loops, i.e., returning all nutrients that come out of the soil back to the soil such as through application of farmyard manure. It also harnesses natural processes to control pests and build soil fertility i.e., through intercropping. Agroecological practices include integrating trees with livestock and crops.
Consider the following:
1. Cover crops
2. Fertigation
3. Hydroponics
4. Mixed farming
5. Polyculture
6. Vertical farming
Which of the above farming practices can be compatible with agroecology, as implied by the passage?
1, 4 and 5 only
2, 3, 4 and 5 only
1, 2, 3 and 6 only
4 and 6 only
Solution
Agroecology mimics natural ecosystems, closes nutrient loops and uses natural processes. Compatible practices are Cover crops, Mixed farming and Polyculture. Fertigation, Hydroponics and Vertical farming are artificial, soil-less or chemical-dependent methods incompatible with agroecology. Hence 1, 4 and 5.