Matt+A

Genetic engineering article http://www.grinningplanet.com/2005/01-04/bt-corn-genetic-engineering-article.htm

This article explains genetically engineering BT crops. They genetically engineered BT corn,BT cotton and BT potatoes. The main idea behind genetically engineered (GE) Bt crops is that they eliminate the need for conventional farmers—those who have traditionally used chemical pesticides. This is better for the environment and cheaper for the farmer. BT is not a new approach.Bt spray has been used for decades for pest control and has been a particularly important tool for organic farmers, who aren't allowed to use the highly toxic arsenal of chemical pesticides. Unfortunately there are a few problems with genetically engineered crops. Prior use of Bt by farmers has always been on an as-needed basis and in combination with other insect control techniques. This intermittent use has prevented insects from developing resistance to Bt. With Bt corn and cotton, the insects are constantly exposed. Another problem is that because crops grow unevenly in nature's differing conditions and because expression of the Bt gene is not uniform throughout the plant, some pests will get a "sub-lethal dose" of Bt toxin

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