Question

reading: the core of agricultural biotechnology
agricultural biotechnology encompasses a range of tools used to alter living organisms for human purposes. this field contrasts traditional breeding—like selective breeding and hybridization, which relies on crossing similar species over generations—with modern genetic engineering.
genetic engineering allows for precise, targeted changes to an organisms genome. this can involve creating transgenic organisms by inserting a gene from an unrelated species, such as inserting a bacterial gene into corn to grant it pest resistance (creating bt corn). another powerful tool is crispr, which allows scientists to edit an organisms existing dna with high precision, often without adding foreign genes. these technologies address challenges like crop diseases, nutrient deficiencies, and environmental stress, but also raise important ethical questions about biodiversity and corporate control over the food supply.
comprehension check: multiple choice:

1. which statement accurately distinguishes genetic engineering from traditional breeding?

a) traditional breeding can introduce genes from any species, while genetic engineering is limited to related plants.
b) genetic engineering allows for the transfer of genes between unrelated species, while traditional breeding is limited to crossing similar species.
c) genetic engineering takes many generations to see results, while traditional breeding is immediate.
d) traditional breeding is done in a lab, while genetic engineering is done in the field.

1. what is the primary function of the bacterial gene in bt corn?

a) it allows the corn to grow with less water.
b) it makes the corn resistant to herbicides.
c) it causes the corn to produce a protein that is toxic to specific insect pests.
d) it enhances the corns nutritional value by adding vitamin a.

Explanation:

For question 1:

• The text states that traditional breeding relies on crossing similar species over generations, while genetic engineering can involve inserting a gene from an unrelated species.
• Option b correctly reflects this distinction.

For question 2:

• The text mentions that inserting a bacterial gene into corn (creating Bt corn) grants it pest resistance.
• Option c is in line with this description as it refers to toxicity to specific insect pests.

Answer:

1. B. Genetic engineering allows for the transfer of genes between unrelated species, while traditional breeding is limited to crossing similar species.
2. C. It causes the corn to produce a protein that is toxic to specific insect pests.