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Question #45174

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) regulates the commercialization of GM crops in India. In the context of Bt cotton cultivation, which of the following statements is INCORRECT regarding the mechanism of action of Cry proteins and pest resistance management?

Options

  • A.

    The inactive protoxin is converted into an active form due to the alkaline pH of the insect gut, which solubilizes the protein crystals.

  • B.

    Activated Cry toxin binds to the surface of midgut epithelial cells, creating pores that cause cell swelling and eventual lysis.

  • C.

    GEAC mandates the planting of non-Bt 'refuge' crops alongside Bt crops to maximize directional selection pressure, ensuring complete eradication of the target pest.

  • D.

    Cultivating Bt cotton without refuge zones increases the frequency of resistance alleles in the pest population due to intense selection pressure.

Check Your Answer

Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Regulatory_Failure

Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.

Concepts Behind This Question

Molecular Diagnosis by ELISA|GEAC Oversight|Antigen-Antibody Reaction

Why This Question Is Tricky

Common Mistakes

Conceptual Pivot: Students often misunderstand the ecological purpose of 'refuge' crops, assuming all agricultural strategies aim for 'complete eradication' (maximizing selection pressure).

In reality, resistance management relies on maintaining a susceptible population to prevent the rapid evolution of resistance, bridging Biotechnology with Evolutionary Biology.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

SubjectBiology
ChapterBiotechnology and Its Applications - Class 12
ConceptGEAC Oversight
Difficulty8
Cognitive Load5
Target Solve Time120 sec
AccessFree