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Why are scientists concerned about the use of the Bt toxin, which is used to kill insects, in genetic engineering?
The Bt toxin is killing too many insects.
The Bt toxin stays in the soil for long periods of time.
The Bt toxin gene is not readily accepted by plants.
The Bt toxin has been known to cause disease in plants.
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The first choice: "The Bt toxin is killing too many insects."
Explanation: The main concern is ecological — Bt expressed continuously in GM crops can affect non-target/beneficial insects and imposes strong selection for resistant pest populations. The Bt gene is readily expressed in plants and Bt does not cause plant disease; while Bt material can persist to some degree in the environment, the primary worry cited by scientists is impacts on insect populations and resistance evolution.
Explanation: The main concern is ecological — Bt expressed continuously in GM crops can affect non-target/beneficial insects and imposes strong selection for resistant pest populations. The Bt gene is readily expressed in plants and Bt does not cause plant disease; while Bt material can persist to some degree in the environment, the primary worry cited by scientists is impacts on insect populations and resistance evolution.
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