173k views
5 votes
The stoneville pedigreed seed company in stoneville, mississippi, produces quality seed at a fair price for cotton farmers in the region. the cotton seeds are developed through selective breeding and genetic engineering to be as beneficial as possible for farmers in the area. which of the following would not be a valid argument in favor of producing these seeds using selective breeding and genetic engineering?

User Graziela
by
7.5k points

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

A potential argument against producing seeds using selective breeding and genetic engineering is the loss of genetic diversity in crops, which can make them more susceptible to diseases and environmental changes.

Step-by-step explanation:

A valid argument against producing seeds using selective breeding and genetic engineering in this context could be the potential loss of genetic diversity in crops. Selective breeding and genetic engineering often focus on specific traits, which can lead to a reduction in the overall genetic variation. This can make crops more susceptible to diseases, pests, and environmental changes.

For example, if only a few selected traits are prioritized in breeding, other beneficial traits may be lost. This can limit the adaptability and resilience of the crop in the face of changing conditions.

Furthermore, the increased uniformity in crops produced through selective breeding and genetic engineering can make them more vulnerable to widespread failures if a specific disease or pest evolves to attack those specific traits.

User Sirrocco
by
7.3k points