₦airaland Forum

Welcome, Guest: RegisterLoginWith GoogleTrendingRecentNew

Stats: 3,326,280 members, 8,425,786 topics. Date: Saturday, 13 June 2026 at 06:18 AM

Toggle theme

Farmkonnect's Posts

Nairaland ForumFarmkonnect's ProfileFarmkonnect's Posts

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 (of 7 pages)

AgriculturePecan Farming 1 by Farmkonnect(op): 12:41pm On May 31, 2018
Pecan trees are native to south central North America, and they grow best in deep, loamy soil. Their buttery nuts are baked into pies and other sweet desserts, and the wood can be used to make furniture or flooring. Growing a pecan tree starts with planting a bare-root or pot-grown tree in a spot well away from buildings and other obstacles. The tree will begin producing nuts after four to eight years, and needs plenty of water to produce hearty nuts.

Choosing a Variety and Planting Site


1. Learn about the different varieties. Different pecan tree varieties grow to varying sizes and produce distinct nuts. Whether you're looking for a tall shade tree that will grow to over 100 feet (30.5 m) or a tree that produces reliably plump and flavorful nuts, there's bound to be a variety that meets your needs. Try to choose one that's known to grow well in your region, taking winter hardiness and disease resistance into account. Here are just a few popular choices
• Elliot: Has a high quality but small nut and bears fruit every other year. It should not be planted in northern areas since it can get damaged by spring freezes; does well in Georgia.
• Gloria Grande: Produces large, thick-shelled nuts almost every year, and is resistant to scab, which commonly damages pecan trees. Susceptible to black aphids.
• Amling: Scab-resistant and early to harvest. Produces small, good-quality nuts.
• Sumner: Easily damaged, but produces regularly.
• Gafford: Highly insect resistant and popular in Alabama; produces excellent nuts.
• McMillan: Very productive and relatively low maintenance; popular in Alabama.

2. Pick a sunny planting spot with plenty of room. Pecan trees can grow over 100 feet (30.5 m) tall, and they have root systems that stretch deep and wide. They need plenty of space, whether you're planting them in your yard or in an orchard. When you're choosing a spot, take the following into consideration:
• Make sure there are no buildings or other trees nearby. A pecan tree could damage buildings or smaller trees with falling branches as it grows bigger.
• In an orchard, plant the trees at least 60 feet (18.3 m) apart. Allow for approximately 65 to 80 feet (19.81 to 24.38 m) spacing between each pecan tree that you plant. If trees are crowded, the faster growing tree will over-shadow the slower tree, stunt it, and kill it eventually, hampering both trees' crops.
• Pecan trees take 20 to 25 years to mature. Some growers will plant trees 30 feet apart, and remove half the trees at around 15 years, when they begin to crowd each other.

3. Make sure the soil is well-drained and deep. This type of soil is the healthiest for pecans, which are native to river valley soils. They prefer sandy loam but can be planted in heavier soil as well, as long as it's well-draining. Rocky or light soil is a more difficult environment for pecans.
• Avoid planting in very dry or light soil, unless you plan to irrigate, since pecans need a lot of water.
• Avoid frost pockets where cold air settles, since they get damaged by frost. Plant at slightly higher elevation (but lower latitude).

4. Choose between a bare-root tree or a container tree. Pecans are most commonly sold as bare-root trees, which are baby trees no more than a few feet tall. Container trees are also available; trees grown this way are usually a few years older.
• A bare-root is cheaper but more fragile, and must be planted between December and March.
• A container tree is more expensive but sturdier, and can be planted between October and May.

5. Plant trees the day you bring them home. Exposing them to heat and dry air will cause the roots to dry out. Remember that pecan trees, above all, need to be kept moist. They die quickly when they dry out.
• If you have a container tree ready to be planted, you can keep it above ground for a day or two longer if you make sure to water it.
• Revive a dry tree by soaking the roots before planting.


Follow this link to read this post on our blog: http://farmkonnectng.com/blog/2018/05/31/pecan-farming-1/

Kindly follow this link to read more interesting agricultural articles- http://farmkonnectng.com/blog
Follow us on twitter @farmkonnectng
Instagram @farmkonnectng
Like our page on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/farmkonnect

AgricultureMaize Farming In Nigeria by Farmkonnect(op): 10:24am On May 31, 2018
Maize farming is one of the crop farming that is very suitable for Nigerians, considering our great arable land. Unlike rice farming, much more of our land can easily be used for maize farming. Maize farming is as old as man itself, and it has been done commercially in Africa in general and Nigeria in particular for decades now. Maize farming is a high-potential opportunity for Nigeria and its people, especially those who are willing to learn how to turn a business idea as this to wealth. Maize is perhaps the most common food crop in Nigeria, and also the most important as it is eaten in various dishes and forms the basis for most of the meals prepared by the average Nigerian family. As we all know, corn is a crop cheaper than rice and wheat, two of the other most consumed cereals, and this affordability makes maize hugely popular. The savvy agribusiness investor stands to make a sizeable amount of money through commercial maize farming.

Maize, also known as corn, is one of the farm produce that gives an incredible return on investment, as one seed of planted maize could return more than 500 kernels of corn come harvest season. A little monetary investment in corn farming can therefore yield a sizeable level of income and profit after a little while. Maize matures very fast. Between planting and harvest time, a farmer needs to wait only between 3 or 4 months. Therefore cultivating just 5000 kernels of corn, a farmer can harvest not less than 2.5 million kernels of the same maize in less than 120 days. What more, maize is a hardy plant, and is one of the few crops that can grow on a vast array of soils and can survive in different climatic conditions. It needs sunlight to prosper and Nigeria is a country blessed with abundant sunlight; maize can therefore be grown successfully in almost every state of the country. Maize remains a key food crop in Africa, Latin America and Asia where it is primarily used as human food; in developed countries though, maize is one of the most important raw materials for animal feed production and biofuels.

Maize also forms the basis for the production for most animal feeds in Nigeria. Without it, the livestock farmer will probably be unable to rear his livestock. The production of meat, eggs and dairy products (like milk and yoghurt) would be difficult without maize, which is a hugely important ingredient in animal feed.

The Market for Maize/Corn in Nigeria.
There are three major markets for maize and its allied products in Nigeria.

Corn as Human Consumption:
Unlike in developed countries where a major portion of maize produced is used for animal feed or biofuel, maize is a significant part of diets in Africa in general and Nigeria in particular. Experts expect that the demand for maize as human nourishment will increase in tandem with Nigeria’s population growth. There will therefore also be a higher demand for corn (maize). This market currently accounts for about 50 per cent of the Nigerian corn demand.

Corn as Animal Feed:
Corn is a favourite raw material for animal feeds, mainly because it is cheaper than many of the other feed alternatives and yet provides the required nutritional content for livestock. As a result, about 35 percent of corn produced in Nigeria is used in animal feed production.

Maize for Industrial Consumption:
It is estimated that about 15 per cent of Nigeria’s current maize produce goes for industrial use, due to its high starch content. The starch obtained from maize is processed into several additives, agents and ingredients such as sorbic acid, sorbitol, dextrine, and lactic acid. These are used in the manufacture of common household items such as cosmetics, ink, medicines and wall paint.
If you’ve eaten popcorn before, you know you’ve eaten the product of maize. Other by-products from maize are shoe polish, batteries, syrups, ice cream, and glue. Companies such as Nestle and Cadbury also buy corn to produce cereal-based breakfast brands like corn flakes, while companies such as Nigerian Breweries and Guinness purchase maize to use as a major raw material for the production of beer. In industrialized countries, the starch from maize is also used to produce bioethanol, a form of renewable fuel. Nigeria is aiming to achieve this level of sophistication as well.


Follow this link to read this post on our blog: http://farmkonnectng.com/blog/2018/05/31/maize-farming-in-nigeria/

Kindly follow this link to read more interesting agricultural articles- http://farmkonnectng.com/blog
Follow us on twitter @farmkonnectng
Instagram @farmkonnectng
Like our page on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/farmkonnect

AgricultureRe: Snail’s Growth by Farmkonnect(op): 8:49am On May 31, 2018
kingui:
I have been studying all about snail farming for 2 weeks now and have realized that its not only flexible but easy to manage and cost effective but my only problem is that I live in Nsukka Enugu state and in this area due to cultural reasons they don't eat snail . what do you think should I still go ahead ahead to establish one considering market and the cultural reasons. thank you.
At Farmkonnect Agribusiness Nigeria Limited, we are building 100 facilities of snail (Helix Aspersa Muller)breeding units with an already made market in Europe with Touchstone Snails Technology Limited. Kindly contact our office on 08093016931 to get more information on how to own part of the snail breeding units.Thank you
AgricultureAlmond Farming (4) by Farmkonnect(op): 1:28pm On May 30, 2018
Treating Common Problems

1. Avoid over-watering to prevent root rot. One problem that can affect nearly any tree (including the almond tree) is root rot. This harmful condition is caused mainly by fungi that start to grow on the tree's roots if they're in contact with water for too long. Since root rot can be very tough to treat, the best policy is prevention. Never over-water your tree — any sort of watering that results in standing water around the base of the tree can do much more harm than good.
• To help prevent over-watering, you may want to increase the drainage capability of your soil. This can be done by mixing in plenty of extra hummus or organic matter to give it added permeability. Note that shallow, heavy, and clay-rich soils have especially bad drainage.
• If you have a case of root rot on your hands (usually signified by drought-like symptoms, including yellowing, wilting, and dying leaves), dig up the plant's roots and cut away any dark, slimy patches. If problems persist, dispose of the plant to prevent the fungus from spreading throughout your garden.

2. Practice good weed control. Weeds are not a huge concern for old, established almond trees, but they can be a serious threat to young seedlings. Weeds compete fiercely for the same nutrients, water, and sun as young almond trees. If ignored, weeds can even "strangle" a seedling before it has a chance to grow.
• The best policy for weeds, especially during your plant's first few months, is to start weeding early and often. Try to keep a five or six foot strip along each row of seedlings free of weeds you can use manual methods (like your hands or garden tools) or herbicides to kill the weeds.
• You can use a layer of mulch, or landscaping fabric to control weeds. This works well for small, home orchards.

3. Keep the tree free of mummies to fight navel orange worm. One particularly annoying almond pest is the navel orange worm. Over the winter, this insect shelters in so-called "mummy" nuts — almonds that aren't harvested and are left on the tree into the late fall and winter. Once the spring rolls around, these grubs become active, resulting in damage to the almond crop. The best way to prevent this is simply to get rid of the mummies. Without any place to shelter over the winter, orange worms should not appear, as they cannot penetrate healthy fruits later in the year.
• After the mummies are removed from the tree, be sure to destroy them by mowing. Orange worms can still shelter in intact mummies on the ground.

4. Use Bacillus thuringiensis spray for peach twig borers. Peach twig borers are just what they sound like — small, grub-like insects that bore into stone fruits like peach and almonds. These insects can cause significant damage to almond crops with their feeding, so if you see these pesky bugs (or chewed-up leaves, which can signal their presence), use a pesticide immediately to protect your crop. Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterial insecticide, is a great choice for killing borers. Time the spray with the spring hatching season to kill the insects before they have a chance to do significant damage.
• In addition to the two examples above, a huge variety of additional pests can potentially attack almond trees — so many, in fact, that it's impossible to list them all here. For more information, use a search engine query for "almond pests" or contact your local garden supply store or a local university's botany department.
• You may also want to learn about integrated pest management. This is a method of controlling pests that combines biological, environmental, and chemical pest management techniques. It is more effective than using one method alone.


Follow this link to read this post on our blog: http://farmkonnectng.com/blog/2018/05/30/almond-farming-4/

Kindly follow this link to read more interesting agricultural articles- http://farmkonnectng.com/blog
Follow us on twitter @farmkonnectng
Instagram @farmkonnectng
Like our page on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/farmkonnect

AgricultureSnail’s Growth by Farmkonnect(op): 10:07am On May 30, 2018
Within the same snail population and under the same conditions, some snails will grow faster than others. Some will take twice as long to mature. This may help the species survive bad weather, etc., in the wild. However, a snail farmer should obviously select and keep the largest and fastest maturing snails for breeding stock and sell the smaller snails. By selecting only the largest, the average size of the snail may increase significantly in only a couple of generations. Most of the differences in growth are probably due to environmental factors including stocking density. However, to whatever extent these differences are genetic, farmers generally breed large, fast-growing snails instead of small, slower-growing ones.

Several factors can greatly influence the growth of snails including: population density, stress (snails are sensitive to noise, light, vibration, unsanitary conditions, irregular feedings, being touched, etc.), feed, temperature and moisture, and the breeding technology used.
H. aspersa requires at least 3% to 4% calcium in the soil (or another source of calcium) for good growth. Most snails need more calcium in the soil than H. aspersa. Low calcium intake will slow the growth rate and cause the shell to be thinner. Calcium may be set out in a feeding dish or trough so the snails can eat it at will. Food is only one calcium source. Snails may eat paint or attack walls of buildings seeking calcium, and they also will eat dirt.
A newborn's shell size depends on the egg size since the shell develops from the egg's surface membrane. As the snail grows, the shell is added onto in increments. Eventually, the shell will develop a flare or reinforcing lip at its opening. This shows that the snail is now mature; there will be no further shell growth. Growth is measured by shell size, since a snail's body weight varies and fluctuates, even in 100% humidity. The growth rate varies considerably between individuals in each population group. Adult size, which is related to the growth rate, also varies, thus the fastest growers are usually the largest snails. Eggs from larger, healthier snails also tend to grow faster and thus larger.

Dryness inhibits growth and even stops activity. When it becomes too hot and dry in summer, the snail becomes inactive, seals its shell and estivates (becomes dormant) until cooler, moister weather returns. Some snails estivate in groups on tree trunks, posts, or walls. They seal themselves to the surface, thus sealing up the shell opening.
Peak snail activity (including feeding and thus growth) occurs a few hours after sunset, when the temperature is lower and the water content (in the form of dew) is higher. During daytime snails usually seek shelter.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heliciculture#Growth

Follow this link to read this post on our blog: http://farmkonnectng.com/blog/2018/05/30/snails-growth/

Kindly follow this link to read more interesting agricultural articles- http://farmkonnectng.com/blog
Follow us on twitter @farmkonnectng
Instagram @farmkonnectng
Like our page on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/farmkonnect

AgricultureCoconut Water Nutrition Facts by Farmkonnect(op): 3:10pm On May 25, 2018
Post by: Adegbola, Bukola Suliyat – bukola@farmkonnectng.com - 08093016914

Coconut water, in fact, is the juicy secretion (collection) inside the cavity or endosperm of young, tender coconut. Its water is one of nature’s most refreshing drinks consumed worldwide for its nutritious and health benefiting properties.

The water of tender coconuts is a clear liquid, sweet, and sterile and composed of unique chemicals such as sugars, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, amino acids, cytokine, and phyto-hormones. It is collected after opening a tender, green, healthy, and undamaged coconut. In general, young and slightly immature coconuts gathered from the coconut tree after they reach about 5-7 months of age for the purpose of reaping its drink.

Botanically, coconut plant belongs to the Arecaceae family of palm trees and has the scientific name: Cocos nucifera.

Each coconut may contain about 200 to 1000 ml of water depending upon cultivar type and size. Any nuts younger than five months of age tend to be bitter in taste and devoid of nutrients. In contrast, mature coconuts contain less water, and their endosperm thickens quickly into white edible meat (kernel). Coconut milk obtained from the meat, therefore, should not be confused with coconut water.

Coconut palm flourishes well under the coastal tropical environments. A coconut tree may yield several hundreds of tender nuts each season. Different species of coconut palms are grown all over the tropics. Naturally, their taste and flavor of water show variations according to saline content in the soil, distance from the seashore and climate conditions.

Health benefits of coconut water

Coconut water is a very refreshing drink to beat the torching tropical summer thirst. Its liquid is packed with simple sugars, electrolytes, and minerals to replenish dehydration conditions inside the human body.
Research studies suggest that cytokinins(e.g., kinetin and trans-zeatin) in coconut water found to have significant anti-ageing, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-thrombotic (anti-clot formation) effects.
Coconut water is offered to patients with diarrhea in many tropic regions to replace the fluid loss from the gastrointestinal tract and to reduce the need for hospitalisation. The osmolarity of tender coconut water is slightly greater than that of WHO recommended ORS (Oral Rehydration Therapy) solution. The presence of other biological constituents like amino acids, enzymes, minerals, and fatty acids may account for this higher osmolarity. Nonetheless, unlike WHO-ORS, its water is very low in sodium and chlorides, but rich in sugars and amino acids. This well-balanced fluid composition, along with much-needed calories, would be an ideal drink instead of any other kind of soft drink beverages available in the markets to correct dehydration conditions.

Coconut water is composed of many naturally occurring bioactive enzymessuch as acid phosphatase, catalase, dehydrogenase, diastase, peroxidase, RNA-polymerases, etc. In effect, these enzymes help in the digestion and metabolism.
Despite being very light in consistency, its water proportionately has better composition of minerals like calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, and zinc than some of the fruit juices like oranges. (Compare the mineral composition of oranges).
Its liquid is also an excellent source of the B-complex vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pyridoxine, and folates. These vitamins are essential in the sense that the human body requires them from external sources to replenish.
Coconut water carries a good amount of electrolytepotassium. 100 ml of water has 250 mg of potassium and 105 mg of sodium. Together, these electrolytes help replenish electrolyte deficiency in the body due to diarrhea (loose stools).
Further, fresh coconut water has a small amount of vitamin-C (Ascorbic acid); It provides about 2.4 mg or 4% of RDA. Vitamin-C is a water-soluble antoxidant.
Selection and storage
Fresh tender coconuts can be readily available in the markets in tropical regions year-round. However, they require importation into the semitropical and cold regions. Nowadays, ready to use tender coconuts, imported from Thailand and Malaysia, can be easily available in the USA, European Union, and Canada.

In the stores, coconut water also sold in packets and bottles as well. However, its overall nutritional profile may not be the same and up to the mark in terms of vitamins and enzyme levels, since some additives and preservative need to be added to it to enhance shelf life.

At home, fresh tender coconuts can be kept at room temperature for about 5-10 days. Once opened, its liquid soon turns sour and off-flavored due to intense enzymatic activity. Instead, store it in the refrigerator if not used immediately.

Preparation and serving tips
To prepare, use a long sickle to cut open its outer layer (exocarp) either at the top or bottom end and break the hard inner shell to expose inner cavity hoding the coconut water. Some expertise and caution are essential to do this job and to avoid injuries. Its water is then enjoyed using a straw. Otherwise, the whole fruit is turn upside down to transfer its water into a wide mouthed bottle or bowl.

Enjoy the coconut drink without any additions.
Iced coconut water can be a refreshing drink.
Fresh water can be made special drink adding lemon slices, mint leaves, and orange zest.
Its gel-like meat (kernel) inside the young tender coconuts is very sweet and delicious.

Safety profile
Coconut water is universally appealing drink. There are no known reactions of any sort notified so far drinking it. It is not only cherished in healthy but considered safe in pregnancy, infants as well as in illness conditions. (Medical disclaimer).

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/coconut-water.html


Follow this link to read this post on our blog: http://farmkonnectng.com/blog/2018/05/25/coconut-water-nutrition-facts/

Kindly follow this link to read more interesting agricultural articles- http://farmkonnectng.com/blog
Follow us on twitter @farmkonnectng
Instagram @farmkonnectng
Like our page on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/farmkonnect

AgricultureRe: Life Cycle Of A Land Snail. by Farmkonnect(op): 3:07pm On May 25, 2018
Stmiceel:
I want to buy baby snail. Just quote me and drop you contact.
Kindly contact us on 09078995634/08093016931
AgricultureRe: How To Start Coconut Oil Production In Nigeria 1 by Farmkonnect(op): 12:22pm On May 25, 2018
Thank you@wakes
AgricultureRe: Life Cycle Of A Land Snail. by Farmkonnect(op): 12:19pm On May 25, 2018
Thank you @jungpablo
AgricultureBenefits Of Investing In Agriculture Stocks by Farmkonnect(op): 12:18pm On May 25, 2018
Post by: Adegbola, Bukola Suliyat – bukola@farmkonnectng.com - 08093016914

Discovery of agriculture is probably the biggest milestone in human history. Agriculture was the backbone of formation of human civilization. After formation of agriculture cities, villages started to prosper so did the art, science, and logic. Even in the current stock market and globalization age agriculture is very well relevant. According to some experts investing in agriculture is even better than investing in gold and other precious metals. Agriculture stocks are still hot potatoes today. Agriculture stocks are companies involved in the farming business. This involves all aspects of the farming business, from fertilizer makers, farm equipment suppliers to seed producers. Agriculture is still one of the biggest businesses in the U.S. and as the world population grows, the demand for more food will also grow.

Here are some reasons why investors should go for investing in agriculture stocks:
The world population has crossed the limit of 700 crores already. The demand for food is always increasing. Demand from huge populated countries like India and China is just seeing new high every year. There won't be any changes in near future. In such scenario investing in agriculture stock always helps to make profits.
If you are not only an investor and you always put your heart on your sleeves then agriculture stocks are your game. According to the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Kanayo F. Nwanze., agriculture investments always helps to lift people from below poverty line. They not only drive economic growth and set the stage for long-term sustainable development; they pay high dividends in terms of quality of life and dignity for poor rural people. So it's a win -win situation for everyone. Agriculture stocks offer an interesting blend of social work and business.
Many investors are hesitating about investing in agriculture stocks as they believe that agriculture stocks are risky proportion. Like any other sector agriculture sector have its own risks and benefits. If you are investing in a low-quality land then defiantly risk is on a high note. But again if you are investing in a good quality fertile land then the sky is the limits for benefits. Huge chunk of investors are not aware of the benefits of investing in the agriculture sector.
Even today agriculture is the backbone of majority country's economies. Agriculture industry provides mankind its most basic need- food. It gives immense impact on agriculture stocks. Everyone is aware of China's impact on world economy. Agriculture filed is no exception. China has 1.4 billion people living off 270 million crops acres! The economic boom in China is imminent and just starting. So prospectus in agriculture stocks is high.

Seed Capital Investment is the initial investment you need to start up any business. A seed capital investment is comparatively low when you compare agriculture to other fields. So it makes agriculture a cost effective business with rich dividends.
We cannot ignore agriculture sector today. In a massive pursuit to feed 7 billion people on daily basis is a huge task. By investing in agriculture stocks we can give our 2 cents contribution toward thwarting hunger from this beautiful world.
In online marketing, it is important to employ automation tools as much as possible to save time and money.
Make positive in order to completely review online advertising computer software before selecting for you to steer clear of scams.

AgricultureRe: Life Cycle Of A Land Snail. by Farmkonnect(op): 1:33pm On May 24, 2018
I don't get you please
AgricultureDifferences Between Slugs And Snails. by Farmkonnect(op): 1:17pm On May 24, 2018
Post By: Adegbola, Bukola Suliyat - bukola@farmkonnectng.com- 08093016914

Whether or not you appreciate earthworm humor, it's clear that snails and slugs seem to go hand in hand. But are they one and the same? Or are they different creatures altogether? Snails and slugs are both part of the same class of creatures called gastropods. Gastropod comes from the Greek words gastros(stomach) and podos (foot). If you've ever seen a snail in an aquarium eating as it moves slowly along the glass, you probably understand why “stomach foot" might be an appropriate name! Most gastropods are aquatic creatures. That means they live in water.

Snails and slugs are the only gastropods that can also be found on land. The majority of snails and slugs, though, live in water.
The most obvious difference between snails and slugs is the fact that snails have shells. A snail's shell is like a home it carries around on its back. Slugs, on the other hand, have no shell. Otherwise, snails and slugs are remarkably similar. Their only other differences are in habitat and behavior, but these differences are the result of the fact that snails have shells and slugs don't. Without those big shells to carry around, slugs can squeeze themselves into many different habitats that snails can't. For example, you may find slugs under loose bark on trees or stones and logs on the ground — places that snails could never go with their shells. If you spend much time in a garden or the great outdoors, you may be more familiar with snails and slugs that live on land. As they move along, you've probably noticed that they often leave behind a slimy trail.

That slime is called mucus. Snails and slugs make mucous so that they can move on the ground. The mucus keeps their bodies from losing moisture to the dry soil beneath them. It also protects them from being cut by sharp objects in the soil.
Unfortunately, most gardeners view snails and slugs as pests. Snails and slugs can completely destroy gardens by eating plants and fruits, including their roots, leaves and stems. Gardeners sometimes use salt or other chemicals to dry out and drive away snails and slugs. Some people even turn the tables on snails and slugs and eat them! All over the world, snails and slugs are a source of protein in the diets of many people. They're even considered a delicacy in some places. For example, in France, escargot is a specialty dish made of a certain type of land snail. Because of their small size and the way they move, snails and slugs are naturally slow-moving creatures. If it takes you a long time to do your homework, your parents may accuse you of moving “at a snail's pace," for example. Likewise, in today's modern world of instant communication via e-mail, regular mail via the postal service can take days and is now sometimes referred to as “snail mail."

AgricultureLife Cycle Of A Land Snail. by Farmkonnect(op): 1:06pm On May 24, 2018
The life cycle of any animal is the period involving the succession of one generation to the next through reproduction.
In brief, the snail life cycle has the following steps:

1. Born and develop.
2. Reach sexual maturity.
3. Find a partner to mate.
4. Mating process.
5. Gestation period.
6. Egg dropping.
7. Egg hatching.

The age of sexual maturity is variable from 6 weeks to 5 years, depending on species of snail. The breeding process of snails has some unique features when compared to other land animals.
Reproduction of land snails is carried out under odd circumstances. First, most of these gastropod mollusks are hermaphrodites so that a single snail may have male and female reproductive organs. Second, on most occasions, two individuals copulate rather than self-fertilize. And third, they have the habit of shooting some structures called “love darts” just before mating.

Mating and Beyond
Land snails engage in various types of courting rituals to attract mates. They can last breeding from a couple of hours to half a day.
They don’t make sounds to lure each other like many types of animals do because snails don’t have the ability to hear. So they expel some chemicals to attract others ready to mate and use touching as a way of courting. Once the mating is over, they go in separate directions.
Snails will produce around 100 eggs, but some species can have up to 400.

Snail breeding involves sexual reproduction. During copulation, both individuals can transfer sperm to each other, but it does not happen in all cases. The sperm is transferred using a penis or spermatophore exiting the body during the intercourse. Then, the sperm enters the body of the other snail to fertilize the eggs later.
Even though snails are hermaphrodites, they mate in the traditional way, they do not fertilize themselves. However, after the mating, both snails can deliver a set of eggs which increases the chances of survival.
When fertilization occurs, eggs develop. Laying the eggs happens in the following days, but the time varies according to the species. As they are promiscuous animals, they can store sperm from previous couples for a long time, even years.
After the mating process, both snails will produce around 100 eggs, but some species can have up to 400. These eggs are tiny, and they will be dropped into moist soil and covered. It can take up to four weeks for them to hatch.
Before laying their eggs, some snails build a nest in a hole, between vegetation or on the ground. If it is in the soil, the animal digs with the aid of its ventral foot until obtaining a hole with a depth of 2 to 4 inches. Once the snail has the proper place, it puts the 100 small and round eggs, often white, surrounded by a viscous layer that serves as protection. They usually have a diameter between 3 and 6 millimeters. Even with so many eggs produced, only a fraction of these snails reach maturity. Many of the eggs are washed away by rain or water or eaten by predators, despite the outer protective layer and being resistant to cold and heat. Even humans take them, which are known as white caviar or snail caviar, consumed in some regions of the world.
Land snails can lay eggs once a month.

From breeding to adulthood.
The shell of the snail develops since it is an embryo inside its egg. Under favorable conditions, eggs hatch after approximately two weeks to 1 month and snails emerge with a soft shell. Therefore, they need to feed themselves to get calcium, and the first source to get it is by consuming the remains of their egg and even other eggs that have not yet hatched.
The baby snails have, in addition to a soft shell, an almost transparent body that acquires strength and color as it grows. The first color they usually have is bluish but then turns to brown or the color that characterizes their species. They grow remarkably fast, but very few reach one year of age. In general, snails are victims of numerous predators, and young individuals are even more vulnerable because of their incomplete development.

Shells continue to grow with the snail over the course of its life, and the rings it has are indicators of their age.
The whole life cycle of a land snail is not very long in human terms. A single snail can live 2 to 7 years according to its species, but in captivity, the life expectancy extends to 10 or 15. In few occasions, they live longer.

Stopping and Hibernating
Some land snails enter a period of lethargy in which they decrease their metabolic rate, and both respiration and heart rate become slower than usual. If it happens in summer is called estivation, but if it occurs in winter, it is hibernation. During this process, to keep their moisture and protect from predators, snails retract into their shell and secrete a layer of mucus called epiphragm, which closes the opening.
Some young snails show a tendency to remain near the place where their eggs hatched, and if they go away, return there in the mornings.

Sources:
http://www.snail-world.com/life-cycle-of-a-snail/
http://scienceline.ucsb.edu/getkey.php?key=2578
Animals, a visual encyclopedia. Second edition. Smithsonian 2012.
http://www.molluscs.at/gastropoda/index.html?/gastropoda/morphology/reproduction.html
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2015/03/150310-snails-reproduction-sex-animals-science-evolution/

Nairaland GeneralStandard Investment Package by Farmkonnect(op): 3:43pm On Apr 19, 2018
#Agricultural_Investment

#Standard_Package

#FarmKonnectng

AgricultureStandard Investment Package by Farmkonnect(op): 3:37pm On Apr 19, 2018
#Agricultural_Investment

#Standard_Package

#FarmKonnectng

Nairaland GeneralInvestment Packages by Farmkonnect(op): 1:26pm On Mar 27, 2018
@FarmKonnect, we have got the investment packages that suit your appetite...
Leverage on our Facilities and make your MONEY work for you

AgricultureInvestment Packages by Farmkonnect(op): 1:20pm On Mar 27, 2018
@FarmKonnect, we have got the investment packages that suit your appetite...
Leverage on our Facilities and make your MONEY work for you

Nairaland GeneralFarmkonnect Agribusiness Nigeria Limited by Farmkonnect(op): 12:13pm On Mar 21, 2018
FarmKonnect is an Agribusiness Company that connect Stakeholders in Agriculture (Investors, Agro Allied Providers, Farmers and Consumers) to enhance food security in the Nation.

Get to know more about us and the investment opportunities available.
We will always be at your disposal...

AgricultureFarmkonnect Agribusiness Nigeria Limited by Farmkonnect(op): 12:01pm On Mar 21, 2018
FarmKonnect is an Agribusiness Company that connect Stakeholders in Agriculture (Investors, Agro Allied Providers, Farmers and Consumers) to enhance food security in the Nation.

Get to know more about us and the investment opportunities available.
We will always be at your disposal...

AgricultureRe: Agricultural Investment #farmkonnect by Farmkonnect(op): 11:37am On Mar 21, 2018
Alright Mr. Richard, we will surely contact you.
Thank You.
Nairaland GeneralAgricultural Investment #farmkonnect by Farmkonnect(op): 12:55pm On Mar 20, 2018
Agriculture not only gives riches to a Nation, but the riches she can call her own...

Tap from these riches by investing in agriculture with FarmKonnect and you will be glad you did.

Let's Talk/whatsapp: 09059102364

AgricultureAgricultural Investment #farmkonnect by Farmkonnect(op): 12:30pm On Mar 20, 2018
Agriculture not only gives riches to a Nation, but the riches she can call her own...

Tap from these riches by investing in agriculture with FarmKonnect and you will be glad you did.

Let's Talk/whatsapp: 09059102364

Nairaland GeneralAgricultural Investment #farmkonnect by Farmkonnect(op): 12:17pm On Mar 14, 2018
FarmKonnect on the motion "to enhance food security"

Be a part of the growth and let's give a new name to Agriculture.

Let's Talk: 09059102364/08093016931...
See More

AgricultureAgricultural Investment #farmkonnect by Farmkonnect(op): 11:57am On Mar 14, 2018
FarmKonnect on the motion "to enhance food security"

Be a part of the growth and let's give a new name to Agriculture.

Let's Talk: 09059102364/08093016931...
See More

Nairaland GeneralAgricultural Investment Opportunity by Farmkonnect(op): 9:47am On Mar 07, 2018
Landed Property is beyond housing...
Let's work together and take Agriculture to greater heights...
Invest in Agricultural Real Estate with FarmKonnect and earn 40% Annually...
No stress, your cash investment does the work...
Let's Talk; 09059102364/08093016931
AgricultureAgricultural Investment Opportunity by Farmkonnect(op): 9:33am On Mar 07, 2018
Landed Property is beyond housing...
Let's work together and take Agriculture to greater heights...
Invest in Agricultural Real Estate with FarmKonnect and earn 40% Annually...
No stress, your cash investment does the work...
Let's Talk; 09059102364/08093016931
AgricultureFg To Create 500,000 Jobs From Irrigation Farming by Farmkonnect(op): 10:27am On Feb 26, 2018
Adeleke Oreoluwa-oreoluwa.a@farmkonnectng.com
The Federal Government says it has concluded plans to create additional 500,000 jobs from irrigation farming.
President Muhammadu Buhari stated this at the inauguration of governing boards of all the 12 River Basin Development Authority (RBDAs), Nigerian Hydrological Agency (NHSA) and the National Water Resource Institute (NWRI) in Abuja.
Represented by the Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, the President said government would raise irrigable lands from the current 130,000 of land to 500,000 hectares over the next 14 years.
He said fish production which would hit one million tonnes of fish per year would create 20,000 jobs.
He urged the agencies to develop policies that would enhance water supply for both human consumption and agricultural activities to increase food production in the country.
Adamu said that the governing boards were reconstituted to reposition all the 12 River basins across the country to embark on massive agricultural and irrigation activities.
Source: Agro Nigeria
agronigeria.com.ng/fg-create-500000-jobs-irrigation-farming

For more info follow us on
Facebook :farmkonnect
Twitter :farmkonnectng
Instagram:Farmkonnectng

www.farmkonnectng.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 (of 7 pages)