Which of the following is a benefit of insect-resistant crops?

• A. Reduced crop yield
• B. Lower dependency on chemical pesticides
• C. Increased labor costs for harvesting
• D. Higher risk of plant diseases

Answer: (B)

Insect-resistant crops provide significant advantages in agricultural practices, particularly in reducing the need for chemical pesticides. When crops are engineered or bred to be resistant to certain pests, farmers can rely less on synthetic pesticides to protect their fields, leading to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pest management. This reliance on natural pest resistance results in cost savings for farmers, less chemical runoff into the environment, and less exposure for farmworkers to harmful substances. These benefits contribute to a healthier ecosystem and can also improve the overall health of agricultural systems.

The other options reflect challenges or drawbacks that are generally not associated with insect-resistant crops. For instance, reduced crop yield, increased labor costs for harvesting, or a higher risk of plant diseases are typically concerns related to traditional farming practices that rely heavily on chemical inputs, rather than benefits of insect-resistant crop technologies.