Organic farming not a clear winner in the soil microbial biodiversity stakes
Studies of the communities of microbes living in agricultural soil show that the difference between organically and conventionally managed soils is negligible, when compared with the impact of other factors. This is good news, confirming that, by sticking to recommended practices, farmers can maintain a healthy soil microbiome to support productive crops, in either organic […]
Leatherjacket numbers crash but farmers still advised to check key crops
The most recent survey by Scotland’s Rural College indicates that, after two years of record numbers, Leatherjacket densities have plummeted. However, while this reduces the need for any chemical controls, SRUC experts urge farmers with spring crops planted after grass to monitor growth carefully and to check their soils for signs of the grubs. Leatherjacket […]
Plant-based crop protection innovation from AlphaBio Control
AlphaBio Control, a leader in the development of sustainable crop protection products, has obtained funding from the Government’s Innovate UK Agritech Catalyst initiative to advance the development of a unique plant-based crop protection technology. In association with Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera), Apres Labs and the Adapt Low Carbon Group, AlphaBio Control is developing […]
£6m funding to improve UK livestock health
Funding for eight projects that aim to improve the health of livestock within the UK has been announced by the Animal Health Research Club (ARC). The club, whose members include Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and other industry organisations, has allocated over £6 million in the second round of funding. In total, £10.8 million […]
Ice pigging technology offers dairy industry significant savings
New analysis published today by the Carbon Trust quantifies the benefits of introducing ‘ice pigging’, an innovative way of cleaning pipework using ice slurries, into commercial dairies to improve profitability and reduce environmental impact. The industry trials, funded by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund, were carried out at production facilities of Yeo Valley, a leading […]
Environmental stress triggers costly pig disease without secondary infections
Stress makes pigs more likely to suffer from a disease which costs farmers in the UK millions of pounds a year in attempts to control, scientists have shown for the first time. The findings from a study at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) could influence the conditions that pig herds are kept in to reduce […]
Research aims to address genetic pre-disposition to lameness in pigs
A team led by researchers at Newcastle University in the UK has begun a project to identify biological and behavioural markers that can be used to detect genetic pre-disposition to degenerative joint disease that causes pain and lameness in pigs. Lameness is a serious animal welfare and economic problem in commercial pig farming which has […]
Prestigious European grant for artificial soils research
A James Hutton Institute scientist has been awarded a highly prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grant to undertake research on a new generation of artificial soils; it is hoped that this would allow researchers to better study the interaction of roots, soil and the microorganisms that live in it – a key battleground in […]
Parasite provides clues to evolution of plant diseases
A new study into the generalist parasite Albugo candida (A. candida), cause of white rust1 of brassicas2, has revealed key insights into the evolution of plant diseases to aid agriculture and global food security. How generalist parasites with wide host ranges evolve is a central question in parasite evolution. Parasites adapt in response to their […]
