Egypt was an oasis in northeastern Africa, dependent on Nile River's annual flooding. Country bordered by Sahara to west, Red Sea to east, and Mediterranean Sea to north. Nile provided transportation and was Egypt's sole transportation artery
Pesticides control pests, including herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides. Herbicides account for approximately 50% of global pesticide use. Pesticides are used in agriculture, disease control, and environmental management. Integrated pest management (IPM) became official policy in 2020s
Merino sheep breed originated in Spain near end of Middle Ages. Breed developed through selective crossbreeding of Spanish ewes with imported rams. Name "merino" first documented in Spain in early 15th century. Breed became Spanish monopoly in fine wool exports by late 15th century
First practical cotton picker invented by John Daniel Rust in late 1920s. Rust brothers received 47 patents on cotton picking machinery. First demonstration occurred in 1936 at Delta Experiment Station. International Harvester Company produced commercial picker in 1944
Humus is dark organic matter formed from plant and animal decomposition. Contains nutrients, especially nitrogen, with C:N ratio between 8:1 and 15:1. Has amorphous structure lacking cellular organization. Composed of lignin, polyphenols, proteins, and carbohydrates
Wheat was first cultivated in Fertile Crescent around 9600 BC. Wild wheat was harvested by hunter-gatherers before domestication. Domesticated wheat developed larger grains and non-shattering heads. Wheat spread rapidly across world from Middle East to Americas