Explanation
The practice of growing trees in arable fields to have ecological and economic interactions is called:
(B) Agroforestry.
Agroforestry is a land use system that involves the integration of trees or woody plants with agricultural crops or livestock on the same piece of land. It combines the benefits of both agriculture and forestry, creating a system where trees and crops or livestock coexist and interact.
Agroforestry practices vary depending on the specific objectives and local conditions but typically involve planting trees in and around arable fields. The trees can provide numerous benefits such as:
Soil conservation: Tree roots help prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure, reducing the risk of nutrient runoff.
Microclimate regulation: Trees provide shade, reducing temperature extremes and creating a more favorable microclimate for crops and livestock.
Nutrient cycling: Leaf litter and fallen branches contribute organic matter, enriching the soil and providing nutrients for crops.
Biodiversity conservation: Trees provide habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects, enhancing overall biodiversity.
Timber and non-timber products: The trees can be harvested for timber, fruits, nuts, medicinal products, or other non-timber forest products, providing economic benefits to farmers.
Agroforestry systems can be designed in different ways, such as alley cropping, where rows of trees are planted alongside rows of crops, or silvopastoral systems, where trees are integrated with livestock grazing.
Overall, agroforestry practices promote sustainable land management, enhance ecosystem services, and improve the resilience and productivity of agricultural systems.
