Question

Write a note on Bt cotton.

Hint:

Bt cotton reduces pesticide use but requires management to prevent pest resistance.

Answer 1

Step 1: Introduction to Bt Cotton.
Bt cotton is a genetically modified variety of cotton that has been engineered to produce a protein from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This protein acts as an insecticide, protecting the cotton plant from pests such as the cotton bollworm.
Step 2: Features of Bt Cotton.
1. Genetic Modification: Bt cotton has been modified by inserting a gene from Bacillus thuringiensis, which encodes the protein Cry, a toxin that kills specific pests. 2. Insect Resistance: The main advantage of Bt cotton is its built-in resistance to insect pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. 3. Environmental Impact: Bt cotton has led to a reduction in pesticide use, but concerns about resistance development in pests and the effect on non-target species have also been raised.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Bt cotton is an important genetically modified crop that offers pest resistance, but it also requires careful management to avoid resistance and other ecological concerns.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Bt cotton is genetically modified to produce a toxin from Bacillus thuringiensis to protect against pests.}} \]