What is one benefit of using GMOs in agriculture?

What is one benefit of using GMOs in agriculture?

• A. Increased sensitivity to pests
• B. Higher resistance to diseases
• C. Increased reliance on chemical fertilizers
• D. Reduced biodiversity in crops

Answer: (B)

The benefit of using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture lies in their potential for higher resistance to diseases. GMOs are engineered through modern biotechnology to incorporate specific genes that enhance their ability to withstand certain pathogens. This resistance helps to protect crops from viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, ultimately leading to reduced crop losses and promoting greater food security. When plants have a heightened resistance to diseases, they require fewer chemical applications, such as pesticides, which not only reduces the environmental impact but also can lead to lower costs for farmers. This improved resilience allows for more reliable agricultural production, supporting both farmers' livelihoods and the global food supply. In contrast, the other options present drawbacks or negative aspects associated with agricultural practices rather than benefits. Options that refer to increased sensitivity to pests or reliance on chemical fertilizers highlight challenges rather than advantages of GMOs. Additionally, reduced biodiversity in crops is a concern regarding the use of GMOs, as monoculture practices can diminish genetic diversity and resilience in agriculture.

The benefit of using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture lies in their potential for higher resistance to diseases. GMOs are engineered through modern biotechnology to incorporate specific genes that enhance their ability to withstand certain pathogens. This resistance helps to protect crops from viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, ultimately leading to reduced crop losses and promoting greater food security.

When plants have a heightened resistance to diseases, they require fewer chemical applications, such as pesticides, which not only reduces the environmental impact but also can lead to lower costs for farmers. This improved resilience allows for more reliable agricultural production, supporting both farmers' livelihoods and the global food supply.

In contrast, the other options present drawbacks or negative aspects associated with agricultural practices rather than benefits. Options that refer to increased sensitivity to pests or reliance on chemical fertilizers highlight challenges rather than advantages of GMOs. Additionally, reduced biodiversity in crops is a concern regarding the use of GMOs, as monoculture practices can diminish genetic diversity and resilience in agriculture.