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What is meant by "clean farming," and how is it harmful to wildlife populations?

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Final answer:

Clean farming involves agricultural practices that focus on eliminating unwanted species from farmlands, but it can negatively impact wildlife populations by destroying habitats. The safety of genetically engineered crops for the environment is under investigation, with concerns about their effects on non-target organisms and ecosystems. Commercial wildlife farming can also introduce invasive species and diseases to native wildlife.

Step-by-step explanation:

Clean farming refers to agricultural practices that aim to eliminate not directly usable or unwanted species from farmlands. These practices often involve clearing large tracts of land and using methods such as monoculture, widespread use of pesticides, and removal of non-crop vegetation. While clean farming can increase the efficiency of food production for human consumption, it can be harmful to wildlife populations. One major concern is habitat destruction. By converting diverse ecosystems into single-crop farmlands, animals lose their natural habitats, which can lead to declines in biodiversity.

The introduction of genetically engineered crops has raised questions about their safety for the environment. Although these crops can be designed for pest resistance or to thrive in challenging conditions, there are concerns about their effects on non-target organisms and potential unintended consequences on entire ecosystems. Studies are ongoing to assess the long-term impacts of genetically engineered crops on biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Farming practices may not only impact the environment but also pose potential hazards to human health. The sub-therapeutic use of antibiotics, as well as the contamination of food and water by pesticides and nitrates, are areas undergoing rigorous investigation. Additionally, the farming of wildlife for commercial purposes often results in escapes, which can introduce invasive species, transmit diseases to native populations, and lead to genetic introgression issues.

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