Category: A

abattoir: a slaughterhouse.

actinomycosis: A disease of cattle and pigs, where the animal is infected with bacteria which form abscesses in the mouth and lungs. Also called lumpy jaw. Early diagnosis and treatment of actinomycosis are crucial for preventing severe health issues in livestock.

AI: Active ingredient; artificial insemination. Abbr AI. Farmers use artificial insemination to improve breeding programs and livestock genetics.

ammonia treatment: A method of treating straw, using ammonia to make it more palatable and nutritious. Implementing ammonia treatment helps farmers improve livestock feed quality.

Andalusian: A dark red breed of cattle, used both as draught animals and for beef. A laying breed of chicken with blue feathers. Understanding the characteristics of Andalusian cattle and chickens helps farmers manage livestock and poultry production.

ACR: Automatic cluster removal. Using ACR systems can improve milking efficiency and udder health in dairy operations.

alp: A high mountain pasture, above the treeline. Managing high mountain pastures helps farmers optimize grazing resources for livestock.

activator: A substance which activates a process, such as a compost activator. Using activators helps farmers accelerate composting and improve soil health.

alkaloid: One of many poisonous substances found in plants, which use them as a defense against herbivores. Many alkaloids such as atropine, morphine, or quinine are also useful as medicines. Farmers benefit from understanding alkaloids to manage plant health and potential toxicity.

analyst: A person who examines samples of substances to find out what they are made of. A person who carries out a study of a problem. A health and safety analyst. Farmers benefit from analysts’ expertise to improve their practices and productivity.