Question

The greatest threat to the genetic diversity in agricultural crops is
(a) Extensive use of insecticides and pesticides
(b) Extensive mixed cropping
(c) Introduction of high yielding varieties
(d) Extensive use of fertilizers

Answer 1

Hint In order to reach the food requirements, many genetically engineered crops are introduced by manipulating them which may sometimes become resistant to several environmental factors and causes a difference in genetic diversity.

Complete answer:
Because of the green revolution in India introduced by M.S.Swaminathan, many hybrid plants are produced using different biotechnology techniques. Many plants of desired characters are produced through gene transfer methods called transgenic plants. Apart from several advantages of genetically modified plants they also show unpredictable results and disturb genetic diversity. The greatest threat to genetic diversity in agricultural crops is the introduction of plants that are produced by using various genetic engineering techniques.

Additional information:
- Some of the biosafety issues of genetically modified crops are:
They transfer allergens or toxins to humans and animals
They can change the fundamental nature of vegetables
They may pose a harmful effect on biodiversity and have an adverse impact on the environment.
Gene pollution is one of the risks due to the transfer of the new genes into related wild species through natural out-crossing. This may result in the development of superweeds which may be fast-growing than the crops and may be resistant to weedicides.
These genetically produced hybrid plants may bring about changes of pattern in natural evolutionary

So, the correct answer is ‘Introduction of high yielding varieties’.

Note: To make decisions regarding the validity of gene modification research and the safety of introducing genetically modified organisms for public services the Indian government set up an organization called the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC).
- Manipulation of living organisms by the human race cannot go any further without regulation.