Which of the following is most likely to be the direct result of lack of genetic diversity in a food crop such as corn?(A) Decre
ased kernel size- kernel size does not affect the corn’s ability to reproduce and grow.(B) Decreased potential yield- the potential yield of corn does not helpcause the corn to become extinct.(C) Decreased dependence on chemical fertilizers- because a decreased dependency on chemical fertilizers would make the corn stronger, and a lack of genetic diversity makes it weaker.(D) Increased susceptibility to plant disease- if corn is more susceptible to plant diseases, then it will be at a risk of extinction.(E) Increased resistance to pests- would make the corn stronger, and a lack of genetic diversity makes it weaker.
(D) Increased susceptibility to plant disease- if corn is more susceptible to plant diseases, then it will be at a risk of extinction.
Explanation:
Genetic variation helps a population to develop despite varying environmental conditions as to decrease the risk of extinction. Genetic diversity is used to create improved crop varieties with traits such as yield, pest resistance and environment stress. Lack of genetic diversity in corn will make it susceptible to plant diseases and be at risk of extinction.
