Monoculture
Definition
Monoculture is an agricultural practice where a single crop is grown in a large area year after year, which can simplify farming and reduce costs.
Scientific / Technical Definition
Monoculture refers to the cultivation of a single crop species in a given agricultural area, either in space at a given time or in sequence over time. This practice, often used in conventional farming, can increase yields due to efficiencies of scale, but it may also lead to reduced biodiversity and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
Benefits
- Simplified farm management
- Cost reduction through economies of scale
- Increased specialized production efficiency
Examples
- Cornfields spanning hundreds of acres
- Wheat monocultures in the Great Plains
- Rice paddies in Asia focusing on a single rice variety
Additional Information
- knownIssues: Monoculture can lead to soil degradation, increased pest and disease outbreaks, and reliance on chemical inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides.
Related Terms
Last updated: 10/26/2024