What practice helps improve biodiversity in farming systems?

Integrating multiple crop varieties is a highly effective practice for improving biodiversity in farming systems. By cultivating a diverse array of crops, farmers can enhance the resilience of their agricultural ecosystem. This diversity supports a variety of plant species that can attract different beneficial insects, improve soil health through varied root systems, and reduce pest incidence through natural competition.

When different crop varieties are grown together or in rotation, it helps to maintain a balanced ecosystem. This not only promotes a more robust agricultural system but also aids in soil retention, nutrient cycling, and pest management, creating a more sustainable farming environment overall. Moreover, such practices can lead to increased yields and better economic stability as farmers are not reliant on a single crop.

In contrast, practices such as monoculture planting, using only hybrid seeds, and focusing solely on cash crops tend to limit biodiversity. Monoculture can lead to a decline in beneficial organisms, increase vulnerability to disease, and degrade soil health. Similarly, relying solely on hybrid seeds may not provide the genetic diversity necessary for adapting to changing environmental conditions, and concentrating on cash crops can overshadow the cultivation of diverse plants that contribute to ecological stability. Therefore, integrating multiple crop varieties not only enhances biodiversity but also promotes sustainable agricultural practices.