Adverse effects of biotechnology

Question 1

what are three adverse effects of biotechnology

Answer 1

1. effects non-target organisms
2. rapid evolution of pesticide-resistant species
3. emergence of super weeds

Question 2

describe the effects on non target organisms as an adverse effect

Answer 2

Some genetically modified pesticide-producing crops kill pests by producing toxins known as Bt. The toxin can kill beneficial insects that control the target pests and can be passed on through food chains

Question 3

describe a rapid evolution of pesticide resistant species as an adverse effect

Answer 3

An increased use of glyphospahte leads to increased weed tolerance to herbicide, therefore greater amounts are needed to control super weeds. This makes the crop diffult to control, may deplete other resources and outcompete other plants.

Question 4

describe the emergence of superweeds as an adverse effect

Answer 4

horizontal gene flow via bacteria or unrelated species can result in the bacteria in the soil taking up genetically modified genes from decomposing GMO plants and transmitting them to other plants creating superweeds.