Consider the following:1. Genetically Modified crops2. Quarantine syst...
- The most popular methods of containing the pest include the use of Genetically Modified (GM) crops and pesticides.
- Natural approaches, including breeding predators such as wasps, to be released into fields when necessary, as well as developing a “germ warfare” that isolates diseases to which the caterpillar (armyworm) is prone, are being explored by the scientists.
- A quarantine system, under which imports of grains and plants that can host such insects are inspected at shipping ports, airports and land border crossings is the first line of defence taken by the countries across the world. Hence, option D is correct.
- The quarantine system in India is governed by the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order of 2003, which is notified under the Destructive Insects and Pests Act of 1914.
Consider the following:1. Genetically Modified crops2. Quarantine syst...
Pest control is the management of pests, which are organisms that can negatively affect human activities. There are various methods used for pest control, and three of them mentioned in the question are genetically modified crops, quarantine systems, and germ warfare. Let's discuss each of these methods and how they can be used for pest control:
1. Genetically Modified Crops:
Genetically modified (GM) crops are plants that have been genetically engineered to possess certain desirable traits. These traits can include resistance to pests, diseases, or herbicides. By incorporating genes from other organisms, scientists can create crops that are more resistant to pests and therefore require less pesticide use.
GM crops can produce toxins that are harmful to specific pests, thus acting as a natural defense mechanism. For example, Bt crops, which contain a gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, produce a toxin that is lethal to certain insect pests. This reduces the need for synthetic pesticides and can be an effective method of pest control.
2. Quarantine System:
A quarantine system is a method of pest control that involves isolating and restricting the movement of potentially infected or infested organisms. This is done to prevent the spread of pests, diseases, or invasive species.
Quarantine systems are commonly used in agriculture and horticulture to prevent the introduction or spread of pests and diseases. By implementing strict regulations and inspections, countries can prevent the entry of pests and diseases that could harm their agricultural industries. Quarantine measures can include border checks, import restrictions, and the destruction of infected or infested materials.
3. Germ Warfare:
Germ warfare, also known as biological warfare, involves the use of pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms) as weapons to harm or kill humans, animals, or plants. While the use of germ warfare is highly controversial and prohibited under international law, it is worth mentioning as a potential method for pest control.
In theory, using specific pathogens that target pests could be a method of pest control. However, the use of germ warfare raises ethical, moral, and safety concerns, making it an unlikely method for pest control in practice.
In conclusion, all three methods mentioned in the question can be deployed as pest controlling methods. Genetically modified crops can reduce the need for pesticides by incorporating pest-resistant traits. Quarantine systems can prevent the spread of pests and diseases by isolating and restricting potentially infected or infested organisms. Although germ warfare is theoretically a possible method, it is highly controversial and prohibited under international law. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D' - 1, 2, and 3.