A new highly nutritious crop is going to be planted in an area where it has never been planted before. What is the most likely outcome of such an event? A. positive as it nourishes the local population B. positive as it changes local biodiversity C. negative as it threatens local biodiversity D. negative as it malnourishes the local population
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: C. negative as it threatens local biodiversity
Explanation
Introducing a new crop to an area where it has never been planted before can have both positive and negative outcomes. However, in terms of environmental and ecological impact, the most likely outcome is negative, particularly because it can threaten local biodiversity.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. When a new, highly nutritious crop is introduced to an unfamiliar environment, it often requires changes in land use. Forests, grasslands, or other natural habitats may be cleared to make space for cultivation. This habitat destruction displaces native plant and animal species, reducing the overall biodiversity of the region.
Additionally, the introduced crop may compete with native plants for resources like water, nutrients, and sunlight. If the new crop is particularly aggressive or fast-growing, it can become invasive, outcompeting and displacing local species. Furthermore, the pests and diseases associated with the crop may also spread to native flora, causing further ecological imbalance.
Another issue arises when farmers use chemical fertilizers and pesticides to enhance the crop’s productivity. These chemicals can pollute soil and water systems, negatively impacting not only biodiversity but also human and animal health.
Though the crop may improve nutrition for the local population (which is a positive social outcome), the ecological cost often outweighs these benefits unless the introduction is carefully planned and managed using sustainable agricultural practices.
Therefore, without proper environmental assessments and precautions, the introduction of a new crop into an unfamiliar ecosystem is most likely to have a negative effect on local biodiversity, making option C the most accurate answer.
In summary, while the intention may be positive, the unintended ecological consequences make it more likely that such an action will threaten biodiversity, which is essential for a healthy and resilient environment
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