How is genetic engineering used in agriculture?

• A. To clone endangered species
• B. To create fossil fuels
• C. To develop pharmaceuticals in bacteria
• D. To create crops with traits like pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, improved nutrition

Answer: (D)

Genetic engineering in agriculture is about giving crops new traits that help them grow better, resist problems, or provide more nutrients by directly altering their DNA. The strongest example is creating crops with pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, or improved nutrition because these traits directly enhance crop performance and food quality. Pest resistance reduces crop losses from insects, lowering the need for chemical sprays and supporting sustainable farming. Herbicide tolerance makes weed control easier and more effective, which can improve yields and reduce tillage. Improved nutrition, such as vitamin or mineral enhancements, helps address dietary gaps in populations.

Other biotech applications exist, but they’re not about improving crops themselves. Cloning endangered species is conservation work, not agricultural crop improvement. Creating fossil fuels isn’t related to modifying crops. Producing pharmaceuticals in bacteria is a biotech use, but it’s about making medicines rather than enhancing crop plants.