A chemical company produced a genetically engineered potato called the New Leaf Superior. This plant produces a chemical that repels insects that might eat the plant. The offspring of the plant will also produce the chemical. What is the most likely, possible, disadvantage of growing this type of potato?

Question

A chemical company produced a genetically engineered potato called the New Leaf Superior. This plant produces a chemical that repels insects that might eat the plant. The offspring of the plant will also produce the chemical. What is the most likely, possible, disadvantage of growing this type of potato?

Killer Potato: Potatohead

a
Decreased nutrient composition in crops.
b
Resistance developed to the chemical by harmful insects.
c
Significantly decreased harvest production of the potatoes.
d
Increased bioluminescence/attraction to fireflies.

Answer 1

The most likely and possible disadvantage of growing this type of potato (New Leaf Superior) is b) Resistance developed to the chemical by harmful insects. This would occur if the insects that feed on the plant gradually evolve or develop resistance to the chemical that repels them. As a result, these insects would no longer be deterred by the chemical and could continue to damage the potato crop.