365 views
1 vote
In the context of genetically modifying crop plants to be herbicide-resistant, how might this modification indirectly affect weeds?

A) Genetically modifying crops may transfer the herbicide-resistant gene to weeds, rendering them resistant to herbicides as well.
B) The use of herbicide-resistant crops creates selective pressure, potentially leading to herbicide-resistant weed populations through natural selection.
C) Crop modification allows herbicide-resistant genes to diffuse into surrounding weed populations, facilitating their adaptation to herbicides.
D) The introduction of herbicide-resistant genes into crops indirectly influences nearby weeds by modifying their genetic structure.

User KSletmoe
by
8.2k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

Genetically modifying crop plants to be herbicide-resistant can indirectly affect weeds by creating selective pressure, potentially leading to herbicide-resistant weed populations through natural selection.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of genetically modifying crop plants to be herbicide-resistant, this modification might indirectly affect weeds by creating selective pressure, potentially leading to herbicide-resistant weed populations through natural selection. The use of herbicide-resistant crops allows for the use of herbicides to control weeds without affecting the crop. Consequently, the herbicide-tolerant crops enable the use of reduced-risk herbicides that break down more quickly in soil and are non-toxic to wildlife and humans.

User AsthaUndefined
by
7.7k points