APHG - Chp 10.1.2

Subsistence Agriculture

Production of food primarily for consumption by the farmer’s family, typically found in developing countries.

Commercial Agriculture

Production of food primarily for sale off the farm, typically found in developed countries.

Extensive Farming

Farming that uses little labor or monetary investment, characterized by low labor, low expenses, and no chemicals.

Intensive Farming

Farming that uses high levels of labor and materials, requiring significant effort and use of chemicals like fertilizers and pesticides.

Monocropping/Monoculture

Cultivation of only one crop in a large land area, resulting in easier harvesting and efficient large-scale farming.

Percentage of Farmers in Labor Force

In LDCs, most people are farmers (subsistence), while in MDCs, the percentage of farmers has declined dramatically since 1900.

Use of Machinery and Technology

Developed countries use machinery like tractors and combines to increase efficiency and crop yields.

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)

Crops or livestock produced through genetic engineering to enhance specific traits.

Commodity Chain

A network of labor and production that leads to a finished product, illustrating how raw materials are transformed into goods.

Average Farm Size in MDCs and LDCs

Average U.S. farm size is approximately 400 acres, compared to roughly 5 acres in Sub-Saharan Africa.