Biotechnology: Environmental and Agricultural Applications
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How does biotechnology help in pest control?
Biotechnology helps in pest control by developing pest-resistant crops and biological pesticides that are environmentally friendly.
What is bioremediation?
Bioremediation is the process of using microorganisms to decompose pollutants, cleaning up contaminated environments.
Explain the term 'biofuel.'
Biofuel is a type of energy derived from biological materials, like plant or animal waste, used as an alternative to fossil fuels.
How are GMOs used in agriculture?
GMOs are used to enhance crop yield, improve nutritional quality, and confer resistance to diseases and pests.
What is the role of biotechnology in biodiversity conservation?
Biotechnology helps conserve biodiversity by creating seed banks and using genetic research to protect endangered species.
Describe the function of a nitrogen-fixing bacterium in agriculture.
Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, enhancing soil fertility and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
How does biotechnology contribute to soil health?
Biotechnological practices like crop rotation and microbial treatments improve soil fertility and structure, promoting better crop growth.
What is the purpose of biofortification in crops?
Biofortification increases the nutritional value of crops by enhancing their content of vitamins and minerals.
How is biological control beneficial compared to chemical control in agriculture?
Biological control uses natural predators or pathogens to manage pests, which reduces reliance on harmful chemical pesticides.
What is aquaculture and its connection to biotechnology?
Aquaculture is the farming of aquatic organisms, and biotechnology enhances it by improving species growth, health, and resistance to disease.
How do genetically modified fish benefit aquaculture?
Genetically modified fish grow faster and are more resilient to diseases, increasing aquaculture productivity.
What is a transgenic plant?
A transgenic plant has been genetically engineered to contain one or more genes from another species, giving it new properties like pest resistance.
How does biotechnology influence climate change?
Biotechnology helps mitigate climate change by developing crops that require less water and nutrients, reducing carbon emissions from agriculture.
What is phytoremediation?
Phytoremediation is the use of plants to absorb and remove contaminants from soil and water.
Name one way biotechnology is used in sustainable food production.
Biotechnology aids in sustainable food production by developing crops that need fewer resources and produce higher yields.