The Danish production of organic berries and fruits must not apply chemical crop spray – for that reason the sector lacks effective means to fight pests and plant diseases. If a biological alternative to the chemical substances is to find, the ecologists may stabilize and increase their yields. A new research project will investigate whether wood ants can function as an organic alternative to pesticides.

The skin-parasite Ichthyobodo (Costia) is one of the most challenging parasites to control in farming of organic rainbow trout. However, a new sustainable agent against this parasite may contribute to secure welfare and health in organic trout.

Properly utilized cover crops can increase soil fertility, raise yield raise and reduce the environmental and climate footprints of cropping systems. However, this calls for innovative thinking and new technologies.

The journal, "Animals", recently launched a Special Issue on Agroforestry for pig production. This emphasises the broad international interest in integrated systems and is a great opportunity to compile research needed to develop the concept further.