Which of the following is a benefit of using agroforestry in a tropical rainforest climate?
1. Trees shield the main crop from the effects of insects.
2. Trees protect the main crop from overexposure to the sun.
3. Growing trees increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
4. Growing trees provides a boost in crop output in the short term.
2. Trees protect the main crop from overexposure to the sun.
The benefit of using agroforestry in a tropical rainforest climate is that trees protect the main crop from overexposure to the sun (option 2). Agroforestry systems typically involve planting trees alongside crops, creating a multi-layered canopy that provides shade and reduces the intensity of sunlight reaching the main crop. This helps prevent sunburn and heat stress, allowing the crop to thrive in the hot and humid climate.
The benefit of using agroforestry in a tropical rainforest climate is that trees protect the main crop from overexposure to the sun (option 2).
Agroforestry refers to a land-use system that combines agricultural crops with the cultivation of trees. In a tropical rainforest climate, where sunlight can be intense, the canopy of trees in an agroforestry system acts as a natural shade cover for the main crop. This shade helps to regulate the amount of sunlight reaching the crop, preventing it from being overexposed and damaged.
To determine the correct answer, we need to evaluate each option:
1. Trees shield the main crop from the effects of insects. This statement is not always true as some insects may still be able to reach the main crop despite the presence of trees.
2. Trees protect the main crop from overexposure to the sun. This statement is accurate. The shade provided by trees in an agroforestry system helps protect the main crop from excessive sunlight.
3. Growing trees increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This statement is incorrect. While trees do absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, they also release oxygen, resulting in a balancing effect on carbon dioxide levels.
4. Growing trees provides a boost in crop output in the short term. This statement is not necessarily true. While trees in agroforestry systems can have long-term benefits such as improving soil quality and providing windbreaks, the immediate crop output may not necessarily be boosted.
Based on the evaluation, the correct answer is option 2: Trees protect the main crop from overexposure to the sun.