Which of the following refers to shifting cultivation?a)Type of cultiv...
Shifting Cultivation
Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture or swidden agriculture, is a type of cultivation where parts of forests are cut and burnt in rotation. It is a traditional agricultural practice that has been used by indigenous communities for centuries.
Process
1. Cutting and Burning: In shifting cultivation, farmers clear a small plot of land by cutting down trees and vegetation. The cut vegetation is then left to dry before it is set on fire. The burning process helps to clear the land and provide nutrients to the soil.
2. Cultivation Period: After the land has been cleared, farmers cultivate crops on the burnt plot for a few years. These crops typically include staple food crops like maize, millet, or cassava. The cultivation period varies depending on the fertility of the soil and the crop requirements.
3. Abandonment and Regeneration: Once the soil fertility decreases and the crop yields decline, the plot is abandoned. The land is left fallow for several years to allow natural regeneration of vegetation. During this time, farmers move on to clear another plot of land and repeat the process.
4. Rotation: Shifting cultivation is characterized by the rotation of plots. Farmers move from one plot to another, allowing the previously used plots to regenerate and regain their fertility. This rotation helps maintain a sustainable system where the land is not overused and allows for the regeneration of natural ecosystems.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of shifting cultivation include:
- Relatively low investment in tools and equipment.
- Utilization of natural resources and biodiversity.
- Adaptability to different ecological conditions.
Disadvantages of shifting cultivation include:
- Deforestation and loss of natural habitats.
- Soil erosion and degradation.
- Unsustainability in areas with high population density.
Conclusion
Shifting cultivation is a type of cultivation where parts of forests are cut and burnt in rotation. It is a traditional agricultural practice that allows for the sustainable use of land and natural resources. While it has advantages in terms of adaptability and low investment, it also has disadvantages related to environmental impacts. The practice of shifting cultivation needs to be managed carefully to ensure its sustainability and minimize negative consequences.
Which of the following refers to shifting cultivation?a)Type of cultiv...
Shifting cultivation is an agricultural system in which plots of land are cultivated temporarily, then abandoned and allowed to revert to their natural vegetation while the cultivator moves on to another plot.
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