Mod 6 IQ 7

Question 1

What is a past use of biotechnologies

Answer 1

The cactoblastis moth larvae was used as a biological control to control prickly pear in NSW 1925

Question 2

applications and ethical use of biotechnology (negatives)

Answer 2

food safety and security combined with the need for regulation and labeling
potential for environmental damage via an increase in monocultures loss of habitat and biodiversity
GM crops don’t biodegrade as readily so soil structure and fertility degrade overtime
use of insecticides containing GMO impact nonharmful insects in the food chain
If the herbicide-tolerant gene escape into the weed populations there is a potential for weed problems to escalate
Loss of autonomy and many unforeseen problems e.g environmental damage
Potential for bioterrorism and the use of biological weapons in warfare
Laboratory safety and security risk of the release of genetically modified plants or genes is a concern

Question 3

The changes to Earth’s biodiversity due to genetic techniques

Answer 3

increase in the rate of species extinction
increase in the life expectancy and size of the human population, in turn, increases the impact on the environment and biodiversity
potential elimination of species considered pests to humans, such as malaria vector mosquito along with non-target species, reduce biodiversity

Question 4

What are the positive social implications of biotechnology

Answer 4

less starvation and under nutrition
less environmental damage because of more efficient food production
Increased life expectancy and quality of life
personalized medicine management of health risks
more resources and environmentally and reliable energy supplies