Final answer:
The bush sickness phenomena was linked to Podzol soils, known for their characteristic lack of essential trace elements like cobalt, critical for livestock health. Correction of cobalt deficiency in these soils addressed the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bush sickness phenomena was a condition observed in livestock in certain regions of New Zealand in the early 20th century. The affected areas were characterized by poor animal health and productivity that was eventually linked to a deficiency of trace elements in the soil, particularly cobalt. The soil order associated with bush sickness is Podzol soils. These soils are acidic, leached, and have a distinct layering with an ash-grey leached layer underneath a darker organic horizon.
Bush sickness was particularly prevalent in the North Island of New Zealand, which features Podzolic soils that are derived from volcanic ash deposits, known locally as pumice. Pumice soils are highly leached and have low fertility, lacking essential trace elements like cobalt and selenium, which are necessary for the health of grazing animals.
The discovery and correction of cobalt deficiency, by adding cobalt-rich fertilizers to the soil, helped to eliminate bush sickness. This phenomenon showcases the importance of soil health and its direct impact on agricultural productivity and animal health. The study of this historical event contributes to the field of agricultural science and soil science, emphasizing the critical role of nutrients in ecosystem balance and the complexities within the disease triangle, involving the interplay between environment, host susceptibility, and pathogens.