Final answer:
Diverse crop rotation is best equipped to survive catastrophic events, as it supports biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, contrasting with the vulnerabilities of monoculture and specific limitations of genetically modified and hydroponically grown crops.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the survival of agricultural crops after a catastrophic event, it's imperative to understand the dynamics of agricultural systems. A monoculture of a single crop is highly susceptible to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses due to its genetic homogeneity which depletes soil nutrients and reduces biodiversity. In contrast, diverse crop rotation provides a system that mimics natural ecosystems with variations in crops over time, thereby improving soil health and resilience to pests and diseases.
Genetically modified crops might offer resistance to certain stresses, but they don't necessarily guarantee survival in the face of catastrophic events, as they could fall short in genetic diversity. On the other hand, hydroponically grown crops are less likely to suffer from soil-born diseases and could be protected from some environmental stresses; however, they might not be sustainable in the absence of technological infrastructure post-catastrophe.
In summary, diverse varieties of crops surrounded by a diverse ecosystem can withstand environmental pressures better than monocultures due to the presence of beneficial traits like pest resistance and improved adaptability. The final answer in a two-line explanation: Diverse crop rotation is the agricultural strategy most likely to survive catastrophic events because it promotes biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.