D

disconnect: To take a device to pieces to look at the components. Proper disconnection practices are important for maintaining equipment and ensuring safety. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and tools for disconnection and follow manufacturer guidelines. Understanding the benefits and applications of proper disconnection will aid in effective equipment maintenance and farm operations.

dry farming: A system of extensive agriculture, producing crops in areas of limited rainfall without using irrigation. Dry farming relies on moisture-conserving techniques and drought-tolerant crops to produce yields in arid regions.

digestion: The process by which food is broken down and converted into elements which can be absorbed by the body. The conversion of organic matter into simpler chemical compounds, as in the production of biogas from manure. Bacterial digestion. Understanding the process of digestion is important for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop balanced and nutritious diets that promote optimal digestion. Implementing proper dietary and waste management practices will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.

dung: Solid waste excreta from animals, especially cattle, often used as fertilizer. In some areas of the world, dried dung is used as a cooking fuel, which has the effect of preventing the dung from being returned to the soil and leads to depletion of soil nutrients. Proper management of dung is essential for maintaining soil fertility and supporting sustainable agriculture.

dry matter: The matter remaining in a biological sample or in animal feed after the water content has been removed. Abbr DM. Dry matter is a critical measure for evaluating the nutritional content of animal feed.

digestibility coefficient: The proportion of food digested and not excreted, shown as a percentage of the total food eaten. Understanding the digestibility coefficient is important for evaluating the nutritional value of animal diets. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop highly digestible and nutritious diets for their livestock. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

distance: The amount of space between two points. Understanding distance is important for planning farm operations, planting, and irrigation. Farmers should use appropriate tools and techniques to measure distances accurately and optimize farm layout. Understanding the benefits of accurate distance measurement will aid in effective farm management and productivity.

dual-purpose breed: A breed of livestock that is used for two purposes, such as milk and meat production. Utilizing dual-purpose breeds can increase farm efficiency and profitability.

digestibility value: The amount of digestible organic matter in the dry matter of plants. Abbr D value. Understanding the digestibility value is important for evaluating the nutritional value of animal diets. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop highly digestible and nutritious diets for their livestock. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

detritivore: An organism which feeds on dead organic matter and breaks it down into simple chemicals, e.g., a fungus or bacterium. Also called detrivore, scavenger. Detritivores play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should encourage the presence of detritivores in their soil through practices like adding organic matter, reducing chemical inputs, and maintaining soil moisture. Healthy populations of detritivores can improve soil structure, fertility, and plant growth.