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Agriculture & Environment: Agri-biotech in Africa

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Definitions

Below is a directory of terms used in the field of genetically modified crops. Most of the terms have been reproduced from the University of California Biotech [UCB] or John Innes Centre [JIC].

See All Definitions

D

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid. The chemical building block of the genetic information in the cell from which genes are composed; it specifies the characteristics of most living organisms. DNA consists of a long molecule of repeating units (each unit containing deoxyribose (a sugar), a phosphoric acid and a base) joined together in a particular order. DNA is usually found as two complementary strands twisted into the shape of a double helix.

DNA code

The sequence (order) of DNA bases in a gene, which make up the instructions for a particular characteristic of the organism. [JIC]

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Flickr/Nazir Amin

Science for oceans

Our Spotlight examines how countries can make better use of scientific tools for sustainable management of marine resources
Flickr/d0ug&r0byn

Ocean knowledge

The facts and figures on 20 years of ocean monitoring progress — but also continuing challenges
Local Kubulau youth with a giant trevally

Balancing act

Science and tradition are coming together in Fiji to help locals conserve their marine resources
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Win-win adaptations

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Biologists record algal diversity during an underwater survey - Flickr/ NOAA Photo Library

Going local

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Buoy vandals

Countries must step up measures against damage of data buoys that puts early warning systems at risk
Men working on a water pipeline in Honduras - Flickr/Water Sanitation and Hygiene Photos

Measuring progress

New, science-based indicators of sustainable development are needed at Rio+20, a conference hears
Participatory mapping in Uganda - Flickr/ILRI

Mapping locally

With a little help, communities can use technology to build local knowledge of climate change risks
Green planet - Courtesy of Gas2.org

Seeking sustainability

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Oedaleus asiaticus juvenile locust by Muren Bao

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Locusts prefer what grows on degraded land, and avoid crops rich in nitrogen – to scientists' surprise
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Be prepared

Devastation from typhoons and floods will only increase unless South-East Asian governments start planning now

Man walking through a flooded ricefield by Flickr/ World Bank Photo Collection

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This policy brief outlines how science can help improve policies for agricultural adaptation and mitigation
Engineers - Flickr/Engineering at Cambridge

Forgotten engineers

The role of engineering in shaping sustainable development is being forgotten, say engineers

Priced out of nutrition

The economic crisis is increasing global hunger — nutritional interventions are desperately needed