Cambridge O Level Biology · Syllabus 5090 · Biotechnology and Genetic Modification
Genetically modified crop
What is Genetically modified crop?
A crop plant into which one or more selected genes have been inserted to give it a new characteristic. Three examples are required at Cambridge O Level. Herbicide resistance allows the crop to survive being sprayed with a particular herbicide, so that herbicide can be used to control competing weeds without killing the crop; the crop itself does not kill weeds. Insect-pest resistance means the crop carries a gene that gives it resistance to particular insect pests, so crop losses fall and less insecticide may be needed. Increased vitamin content means inserted genes raise the production or accumulation of a vitamin or its precursor, improving the nutritional value of the crop. Each modification works against particular herbicides or particular pests, never against all of them.
This definition is part of the Biotechnology and Genetic Modification chapter in Cambridge O Level Biology.
Questions students ask about Genetically modified crop
What are the three required examples of genetically modified crops?
Herbicide resistance, so the crop survives being sprayed with a particular herbicide and that herbicide can control competing weeds; insect-pest resistance, so the crop is damaged less by particular pests and less insecticide may be needed; and increased vitamin content, where inserted genes raise the production or accumulation of a vitamin or its precursor.