Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Agribusiness Practice Test

What is the function of an implant in animal agriculture?

1. To enhance animal breeding efficiency

2. To slowly release hormones into the bloodstream

3. To provide nutritional supplements

4. To measure physical activity levels

The correct answer is: To slowly release hormones into the bloodstream

The function of an implant in animal agriculture is to slowly release hormones into the bloodstream. This method is commonly used in livestock management to improve growth rates, feed efficiency, and overall productivity. Hormonal implants can influence metabolic processes and growth patterns, leading to more efficient meat production in beef cattle and other livestock. By providing a steady release of hormones, implants help optimize the growth potential of the animals, which is critical for meeting production goals in the agricultural industry. This controlled hormone release differs from other methods of animal management that focus on breeding efficiency or nutritional supplementation. For instance, while enhancing breeding efficiency is important, it involves different techniques such as selective breeding rather than hormone administration. Similarly, nutritional supplements serve a different purpose by providing essential nutrients, and physical activity meters are unrelated to hormonal effects or growth enhancement.