In a practice known as crop rotation, farmers alternate a crop of legumes (plants whose roots bear modules containing Rhizobium) with a crop of non-legumes. What is/are the benefit of this practice?

Options

A. Rhizobium fixes nitrogen and the fixed nitrogen will increase the fertility of the soil.
B. It prevents the farmer from being exposed to the same crop pathogens year after year.
C. It keeps the plants from becoming pesticide resistant.
D. It keeps those bacteria that are plant pathogens from becoming pesticide resistant.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Crop Rotation**: Crop rotation is a farming practice where different types of crops are planted in the same area in sequential seasons. This helps in maintaining soil health and fertility.

2. **Role of Leguminous Plants**: Leguminous plants, such as peas, beans, and lentils, have a unique ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil through their root nodules, which contain bacteria called Rhizobium.

3. **Benefits of Nitrogen Fixation**: When legumes are grown, they enrich the soil with nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth. This reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, promoting a more sustainable farming practice.

4. **Improving Soil Structure**: Leguminous plants also help in improving soil structure. Their roots penetrate deep into the soil, creating channels that enhance aeration and water infiltration.

5. **Pest and Disease Management**: Alternating crops can help in breaking the life cycles of pests and diseases associated with specific crops. This reduces the likelihood of infestations and promotes healthier crops.

6. **Increased Crop Yields**: By alternating legumes with non-legumes, farmers can achieve higher overall yields. The nitrogen fixed by legumes supports the growth of subsequent non-leguminous crops, leading to better productivity.

7. **Sustainability**: Crop rotation, particularly with legumes, promotes sustainable agricultural practices by reducing dependency on synthetic fertilizers and improving biodiversity in the farming ecosystem.

**Final Summary**: The benefits of crop rotation, specifically alternating legumes with non-legumes, include enhanced soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, improved soil structure, pest and disease management, increased crop yields, and overall sustainability in farming practices.

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