Ecological balance in the agro-ecosystem.pptx

Ecological balance in the agro-ecosystem

1. Ecological balance   Ecology is the science of the study of ecosystems.  Ecological balance  has been defined by various online dictionaries as "a state of dynamic equilibrium within a community of organisms in which genetic, species and ecosystem diversity remain relatively stable, subject to gradual changes through natural succession." and "A stable balance in the numbers of each species in an ecosystem."

2. The most important point being that the natural balance in an ecosystem is maintained. This balance may be disturbed due to the introduction of new species, the sudden death of some species, natural hazards or man-made causes. In this field trip we will explore how human population and development affects the ecological balance. Ecological balance is also important  because it leads to the continuous existence of the organisms . It ensures that no particular species is exploited or overused A balanced ecosystem signifies  a habitat which is sustainable . It consists of animals, plants, microorganisms and more which depend on each other and their surroundings. These ecosystems exhibit resourceful energy and material cycling. It also displays interconnectedness amid primary producers and predators.

3. What is Ecological Balance? Ecology is a field of science that specializes in the study of environmental systems and the organisms that live within those systems, collectively called  ecosystems .  Ecological balance  or ecological equilibrium is an ecological concept that describes how ecosystems exist in a dynamic state of balance or equilibrium.  Dynamic equilibrium  means that despite disturbances, which may be natural or anthropogenic (human-caused), a balanced ecosystem remains stable because it is in a constant state of flux, perpetually compensating for changes. Simply put, a balanced ecosystem is in a state of dynamic stability where different species interact with each other and their environment in a sustainable way.

4. Factors of balanced ecosystems:   In a balanced ecosystem, the community of living (biotic) organisms interacts with non-living (abiotic) features in the environment.  Abiotic features of ecosystems include precipitation, temperature, landscape, sunlight, soil, water chemistry, and moisture.  The types of biotic factors in a balanced ecosystem include primary producers such as plants, primary consumers such as herbivores, secondary consumers such as carnivores, consumers such as omnivores that consume both plants and animals, and detritivores that eat decaying organic matter.  Biotic factors rely upon abiotic factors to survive.  Plants require a certain temperature, moisture, and soil chemistry to thrive. Animals rely on those plants for their food.  Anything affecting any factor of an ecosystem can throw it off balance and force organisms to adapt or die off. 

5. Importance of ecological balance:   Ecological balance ensures the stability of the organisms and environment.  It creates a conducive environment for organism multiplication and thriving.  It enhances a stable environment that is free from ecological imbalances such as flood, hunger caused by drought, windstorms that may wipe out everything, and over hunting of the predators. 

6. Ways to Maintain Ecological Balance Manage Natural Resources Carefully You can see this in marine ecosystems where the loss of just a few species can threaten an entire ecosystem. A concerted effort to use natural resources in a sustainable manner will help to protect and maintain ecological balance. Control the Population This problem is important despite emotional, cultural or religious sensitivity to the issue.. Controlling the birth rate through contraception and family planning will reduce the strain on the ecosystem by reducing the rate at which people consume natural resources.

7. Protect the Water Taking steps to reduce or eliminate pollution from nonpoint sources such as streets and farms will help to maintain the ecological balance. This causes a reduction in the amount of natural plant life in the marine ecosystem. The animals that feed on the plants die, which leads to the death of animals that prey on them. The decaying algae promote the growth of anaerobic organisms, which release compounds into the water that are toxic to marine animals.

8. What You Can Do Protecting the ecological balance is an issue that everybody can become involved in. You have the power to have a positive effect, no matter how small, in maintaining the delicate balance of the Earth's ecosystem. Recycle to help prevent the over-harvesting of natural resources. Conserve energy by choosing more energy efficient appliances and automobiles. If everybody uses less energy, pollution decreases and less coal gets used to power the nation and the world. Encourage family and friends to be ecologically aware in the ways that they live day-to-day. Just as many hands make light work, many individuals working together can help by protecting and maintaining ecological balance.

9. AGRO ECOSYSTEM  Interactive of agriculture and living organism with environment is called agro ecosystem. Agroecosystems are  natural communities  that have been modified by humans for agricultural purposes. DEFINITION Agroecosystems  refer to the relationships and interactions between abiotic and biotic factors (including humans) in a physical space - as well as the agricultural processes themselves

10. Types of Agroecosystems Agroecosystems have been used for  thousands of years  among indigenous societies - they recognised the important connection between agriculture and natural systems. Only in the 20th century did agroecology come about as a discipline in western science. The types of agroecosystem vary depending on: Location Natural community Agricultural focus

11. Polyculture (Intercropping) Polyculture differs greatly from modern, industrial monocultures. Instead of huge expanses of one plant,  different complementary crops  are interspersed, producing mutual benefits. Polyculture strategies can save land area by up to 29% compared to monocultures - making them very useful in the journey to sustainable agricultural expansion.

12. Permaculture Permaculture systems create synergies and  imitate natural systems . These systems apply holistic techniques to support ecosystem function, integrating a range of functions (e.g. hydrology, livestock, waste management). Permaculture has been adopted as a design system in many other aspects of life. It's about working with, rather than against, nature. The permaculture philosophy focuses on earth care, people care, and fair shares. Permaculture designs can be applied to urban areas, finance, technology, culture, education, and health and well-being.

13. Agroforestry Agroforestry encompasses the growth of trees and crops, and managing animals for mutual benefit. Silvopastoral Systems Silvopastoral systems  combine livestock with mixed plants  such as trees, grasses and shrubs. hese systems are common in Latin America, and typically combine grazing pastures and trees - such as timber plantations or fruit trees. These pastures are incorporated among trees or using rows of trees to provide borders. Grazing is rotated between different pastures to allow time for recuperation.

14. Trees provide shade and shelter, providing   favourable conditions  for the livestock and improving their welfare, while animals provide  manure  that fertilises the land. When compared to modern farming methods, silvopastoral systems show improved animal welfare, increased biodiversity, and increased production of meat and dairy. Furthermore, silvopastoral systems also support climate mitigation. Agrisilvicultural Systems Agrisilvicultural systems combine crops and trees. Agrosilvopastoral Systems These systems combine all three elements of crops, forests and pasture.

15. Components of Agroecosystems Agroecosystems consist of two components: abiotic and biotic. Abiotic Components Climate:  temperature, light intensity, day length, CO 2 Resources:  water availability, nutrient supply Landscape:  topography, relief Soil:  fertility, salinity, pH Biotic Components Pests:  parasites, herbivores Competition:  between plants Symbiotic relationships:  subterranean organisms,  pollinators Farmers:  includes their management of (a)biotic factors

16. Characteristics of Agroecosystems Agroecosystems are categorised by types of diversity. Planned diversity  focuses on the domesticated plants and animals (and beneficial organisms) that are deliberately added to the system. Unplanned diversity  focuses on other organisms in the system after conversion to agriculture (e.g. predators, weeds, microbes)

17. Interactions between Planned and Unplanned Diversity Planned diversity can impact overall ecosystem functioning. Modern industrial agricultural systems have much lower diversity (including genetic diversity) than traditional systems. Reduced genetic diversity leaves plants and animals  susceptible  to pests and diseases, which have often adapted to exploit the most common varieties. A potential mitigation strategy is genetically engineering agricultural products to have increased resistance to these diseases and pests. Alternatively,  promoting increased diversity  can help reduce these problems and increase overall resistance. Furthermore, increasing planned diversity also increases unplanned diversity. This benefits agricultural production by delivering services such as pollination, pest control and soil health.

18. Ecological balance in the agro -ecosystem

19. Ecological balance in the agro -ecosystem refers to the equilibrium that is maintained between various biological, physical, and chemical components within an agricultural system. This balance is essential for the sustainability, productivity, and health of both the cultivated crops and the surrounding environment. Achieving ecological balance in agriculture involves integrating ecological principles and practices to minimize negative impacts on the ecosystem while maximizing agricultural productivity. Here are some key aspects of ecological balance in the agro -ecosystem:

20. Biodiversity : Promoting biodiversity within agricultural landscapes helps support a variety of species, including beneficial insects, pollinators, predators, and microbes. Diverse ecosystems are more resilient to pests, diseases, and environmental changes. 2. Crop Diversity : Planting a variety of crops can reduce the risk of pest outbreaks and soil degradation. Crop diversity also provides a wider range of nutrients and supports ecosystem services. 3. Natural Pest Management : Encouraging natural predators and beneficial insects can help control pest populations without relying heavily on chemical pesticides. This involves creating habitats and food sources for these natural enemies.

21. 4. Soil Health : Maintaining healthy soil through practices like cover cropping, reduced tillage, and organic matter addition supports nutrient cycling, water retention, and overall ecosystem vitality. 5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) : IPM focuses on a combination of strategies such as cultural practices, biological control, and judicious use of pesticides to manage pests effectively while minimizing environmental impact. 6. Conservation of Resources : Efficient use of water, energy, and other resources reduces waste and environmental stress. Techniques like drip irrigation and agroforestry contribute to resource conservation.

22. 7. Reduced Chemical Inputs : Minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides reduces their negative impact on the environment and helps prevent pollution of soil and water. 8. Agroforestry and Hedgerows : Integrating trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes provides habitat for wildlife, helps control erosion, and enhances soil fertility. 9 . Water Management : Implementing water-saving practices like rainwater harvesting, proper irrigation techniques, and maintaining riparian zones contributes to water conservation and quality. 10. Erosion Control : Practices such as contour farming, terracing, and maintaining ground cover help prevent soil erosion and loss of valuable topsoil.

23. 11. Rotational Grazing : For livestock systems, rotational grazing allows pastures to recover and minimizes overgrazing, leading to healthier ecosystems. 12. Reduced Chemical Inputs : Minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides reduces their negative impact on the environment and helps prevent pollution of soil and water. 13. Education and Outreach : Educating farmers and communities about sustainable farming practices fosters awareness and understanding of the importance of ecological balance.

24. 14. Adaptation to Climate Change : Designing agro -ecosystems to be resilient to climate change includes selecting climate-appropriate crops, optimizing water management, and adopting conservation practices. 15. Crop Rotation and Polyculture : Alternating crop types and planting multiple crops together can disrupt pest and disease cycles, improve soil health, and increase overall system resilience. 16. Habitat Creation : Preserving natural habitats and creating on-farm habitats like hedgerows, ponds, and windbreaks provide shelter, food, and breeding sites for beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife.

25. 17. Climate Resilience : Designing agro -ecosystems to adapt to climate change involves selecting climate-resilient crop varieties, optimizing planting times, and adopting practices that reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events. 18. Community Engagement : Involving local communities in sustainable agricultural practices fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to better long-term ecological outcomes. 19. Economic Viability : Ecological balance should also consider the economic viability of the farming system. Practices that enhance sustainability should also contribute to the livelihoods of farmers.

26. 20. Research and Innovation : Ongoing research and innovation in sustainable agriculture provide new insights, techniques, and technologies to continuously improve ecological balance in agro -ecosystems. Achieving and maintaining ecological balance in the agro -ecosystem requires a comprehensive understanding of the local environment, ecological interactions, and the socio-economic context. By adopting practices that promote biodiversity, conserve resources, and minimize environmental impacts, farmers can contribute to the long-term health and productivity of both their crops and the environment.

27. Achieving ecological balance in agro -ecosystems requires a holistic and context-specific approach. It involves understanding the relationships between different components of the ecosystem and applying practices that promote both agricultural productivity and environmental health. By doing so, farmers can ensure long-term sustainability and maintain a balance between production and ecosystem services.