Title: Evaluate overall health or homeostasis for animals and plants.
Course: Biological Applications in Agriculture (18308-I) > Section: Understanding the Health Principles of Biological Systems

Evaluation should include behavioral and physical signs of illness, as well as stressors and other environmental factors. Examples may include, but are not limited to,

- optimum temperature
- access to feed and water
- companionship.
- plant homeostasis—the maintenance of a stable internal environment—plants regulating
  - water balance (osmoregulation)
  - gas exchange (diffusion)
    - oxygen balance
    - carbon dioxide balance
  - nutrient balance
  - temperature balance (thermoregulation).

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is the role of water quality in domestic animal health? In plant health?
- How does animal nutrition affect animal health?
- What measures should be taken to prevent animals from becoming sick? To prevent plants from becoming sick?
- How can behavioral and physical stressors be limited to ensure optimal health?
- What mechanisms do plants use to regulate water balance?