Question

Which of the following is a disadvantage of rain forest agroforestry compared to slash-and-burn farming methods?

1. prevention of soil erosion
2. increased start-up costs
3. decreased shade for crops
4. faster rates of deforestation

Answer 1

1. c increased start up costs
2. c increased labor expenses
3.b, d maintenance of soils nutrients; increased biodiversity

Answer 2

Alexia was 100% correct

Answer 3

2. Increased start-up costs is a disadvantage of rainforest agroforestry compared to slash-and-burn farming methods. In slash-and-burn agriculture, farmers clear patches of forestland and burn the vegetation to enrich the soil with nutrients. This method has lower start-up costs, but it leads to soil degradation, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. On the other hand, rainforest agroforestry systems require more initial investment for setting up and maintaining the diverse mix of crops and trees. However, in the long run, these sustainable farming methods offer many benefits like preventing soil erosion, maintaining biodiversity, and providing ecosystem services such as water regulation and carbon storage.