Technology

The local deciduous fruit industry has developed a successful Mediterranean fruit fly control programme that uses environmentally friendly products, as well as the ‘sterile insect technique’. Denene Erasmus reports.

A genetic marker shows a pig’s susceptibility to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome.

The reproductive performance of a sheep flock can be improved significantly if farmers retain their best ewes for an extra year or two.

Dr Maryna de Wit and her team at the University of the Free State are studying commercially viable uses for the cactus pear. The researchers argue that although South Africa produces huge quantities of the crop, its many uses have never been fully exploited here. Annelie Coleman reports.

Getting the overall picture of the performance of various tractor and implement combinations is now easier, thanks to the Telematics on Implements system from Claas. Joe Spencer reports.

Professor Frikkie Neser, of the University of the Free State’s department of animal, wildlife and grassland sciences, says that breeders should aim for livestock suited to particular production environments. Lloyd Phillips reports.

Pietermaritzburg-based Massey Ferguson dealer, FMS, recently held a field demo at Cedara. Joe Spencer reports.

The Case IH Quadtrac 600 recently picked up a 2012 AE50 Award. Joe Spencer reports.

This invasive alien plant is difficult to destroy, but trials at Nyoka Wildlife Conservation have shown good results, writes Dave Vanderspuy.

Scientists are going to space to help farmers monitor drought and irrigate their crops.

Research by two doctoral students the University of the Free State has shown that supplementing pig feed with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) could add considerable value to the pork industry. Annelie Coleman spoke to Cobus Ferreira and Carina Bothma.

Falcon’s new Rotogang is now out and the word is, the company has got it right. Joe Spencer reports.