Q.1 What does the acronym GMO stand for?
Genetic Modified Organism
Genetically Modified Organism
Genome Modified Organism
Genetic Mutation Organism
Explanation - GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organism, meaning an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.
Correct answer is: Genetically Modified Organism
Q.2 Which of the following is NOT a common method used to create GMOs?
CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing
Traditional selective breeding
Gene gun bombardment
Agrobacterium-mediated transformation
Explanation - Traditional selective breeding changes genes through natural cross-breeding, while GMOs involve direct manipulation of DNA using biotechnological tools.
Correct answer is: Traditional selective breeding
Q.3 What was one of the first genetically modified crops developed in the 1990s?
Bt cotton
Golden Rice
Roundup Ready soybeans
Drought-tolerant wheat
Explanation - Bt cotton, engineered to express a toxin from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, was one of the earliest commercial GM crops approved in the 1990s.
Correct answer is: Bt cotton
Q.4 Which company first developed the Roundup Ready soybean?
Bayer
Monsanto
Dupont
Syngenta
Explanation - Monsanto introduced Roundup Ready soybeans in 1996, making them herbicide-resistant to glyphosate.
Correct answer is: Monsanto
Q.5 The Golden Rice variety contains a gene that enables it to produce which vitamin?
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Vitamin B12
Explanation - Golden Rice was engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, to combat deficiency in developing countries.
Correct answer is: Vitamin A
Q.6 Which regulatory body in the United States is primarily responsible for approving GM foods for sale?
EPA
FDA
USDA
CDC
Explanation - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews and approves GM foods before they can be sold to consumers.
Correct answer is: FDA
Q.7 CRISPR-Cas9 is best described as a:
Virus used in gene therapy
Gene editing tool that cuts DNA at specific sites
Protein that binds to RNA
Synthetic fertilizer
Explanation - CRISPR-Cas9 is a precise gene editing system that allows scientists to cut and modify specific DNA sequences.
Correct answer is: Gene editing tool that cuts DNA at specific sites
Q.8 Which of the following is a potential ecological risk of GM crops?
Increased soil erosion
Development of herbicide-resistant weeds
Reduced crop yield
Higher water usage
Explanation - Herbicide-resistant GM crops can lead to the evolution of weeds that also resist the same herbicides, creating a cycle of increasing chemical use.
Correct answer is: Development of herbicide-resistant weeds
Q.9 What does the term 'cisgenic' mean in the context of genetic engineering?
Transfer of genes from unrelated species
Transfer of genes from a related species
Random insertion of DNA
Silencing of a gene
Explanation - Cisgenic organisms contain genes only from closely related species, unlike transgenic organisms which contain genes from unrelated species.
Correct answer is: Transfer of genes from a related species
Q.10 Which international treaty addresses the movement of genetically modified organisms across borders?
Convention on Biological Diversity
Montreal Protocol
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
Kyoto Protocol
Explanation - The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) includes protocols for the safe transfer and use of GMOs among nations.
Correct answer is: Convention on Biological Diversity
Q.11 The term 'stacking' in GM crops refers to:
Combining multiple genetic traits into a single plant
Layering multiple seeds for planting
Increasing the height of the plant
Mixing different crop species in a field
Explanation - Stacking involves integrating several beneficial genes (e.g., herbicide resistance and pest resistance) into one plant variety.
Correct answer is: Combining multiple genetic traits into a single plant
Q.12 Which of the following is NOT typically a reason for developing GMOs?
Enhanced nutritional content
Increased crop resilience to climate
Reducing pesticide use
Increasing the plant's height beyond natural limits
Explanation - While height can be modified, the primary goals are nutritional improvement, resilience, and reduced chemical use.
Correct answer is: Increasing the plant's height beyond natural limits
Q.13 Which of these best describes the concept of 'biosafety' in GMO regulation?
Ensuring GMOs do not contaminate non-GM crops
Ensuring GMOs are free from harmful chemicals
Ensuring GMOs are cheaper than non-GM crops
Ensuring GMOs grow faster than non-GM crops
Explanation - Biosafety focuses on preventing unintended environmental and health impacts, including cross-contamination.
Correct answer is: Ensuring GMOs do not contaminate non-GM crops
Q.14 Which of the following is a main argument against labeling GM foods?
It causes unnecessary consumer confusion
It would require expensive labeling equipment
It violates intellectual property rights
It would reduce the market value of GM crops
Explanation - Opponents argue that labeling may mislead consumers by implying GM foods are unsafe, despite evidence of safety.
Correct answer is: It causes unnecessary consumer confusion
Q.15 Which enzyme is most commonly used to transform plant DNA in the laboratory?
DNA polymerase
Restriction endonuclease
Ligase
Transposase
Explanation - Transposases (like T-DNA from Agrobacterium) are often employed to insert new DNA into plant genomes.
Correct answer is: Transposase
Q.16 Which statement best describes a 'gene knockout' experiment?
Insertion of a new gene into a genome
Deletion or inactivation of an existing gene
Overexpression of an existing gene
Creating a hybrid organism
Explanation - Gene knockout removes or disables a gene to study its function.
Correct answer is: Deletion or inactivation of an existing gene
Q.17 Which type of GM crop is specifically engineered to produce an animal protein for use in food products?
Nutrient-enhanced crops
Protein-rich crops
Transgenic plants
Biopharming crops
Explanation - Biopharming crops are designed to produce pharmaceuticals or animal proteins like insulin in edible plants.
Correct answer is: Biopharming crops
Q.18 What is the main difference between a GM crop and a conventional hybrid crop?
GM crops have inserted foreign DNA, hybrids do not
Hybrid crops are always GMO
Hybrids have only natural selection, GM crops use breeding
There is no difference
Explanation - Hybrids are created by cross-breeding, whereas GM crops involve direct gene transfer.
Correct answer is: GM crops have inserted foreign DNA, hybrids do not
Q.19 Which of the following is a commonly cited benefit of GM tomatoes?
They are larger in size
They contain higher lycopene levels
They grow faster in cold climates
They are sweeter without added sugar
Explanation - GM tomatoes have been engineered to produce more lycopene, an antioxidant beneficial for health.
Correct answer is: They contain higher lycopene levels
Q.20 What is a major ethical concern associated with GM livestock?
They may be more resistant to disease
They could raise welfare and ecological issues
They cost more to produce
They require more feed
Explanation - Genetically engineered animals may have unforeseen health or welfare implications and affect ecosystems.
Correct answer is: They could raise welfare and ecological issues
Q.21 Which of these is a potential advantage of using RNA interference (RNAi) in crops?
It can silence pest resistance genes
It can knock down plant disease resistance genes
It can silence genes that confer susceptibility to pests
It can increase the plant's height
Explanation - RNAi is used to reduce the expression of genes that make plants vulnerable to pests.
Correct answer is: It can silence genes that confer susceptibility to pests
Q.22 Which of the following best defines the term 'transgenic'?
An organism with a small mutation
An organism with inserted DNA from another species
An organism that has been hybridized
An organism that has lost a gene
Explanation - Transgenic organisms carry foreign genes from unrelated species.
Correct answer is: An organism with inserted DNA from another species
Q.23 Which of these is a key factor in determining whether a GMO is considered 'novel'?
The method used for DNA insertion
The country of origin
The color of the product
The price of the product
Explanation - Novel GMOs often involve new or advanced genetic manipulation techniques.
Correct answer is: The method used for DNA insertion
Q.24 Which of the following best describes the 'gene drive' technology?
A mechanism that ensures a gene is inherited by all offspring
A process that reduces the number of genes in a genome
A tool to edit the genome of animals
A method to remove genes from a crop
Explanation - Gene drives bias inheritance, causing a specific gene to spread rapidly through a population.
Correct answer is: A mechanism that ensures a gene is inherited by all offspring
Q.25 What does 'stacked traits' mean in the context of GM crops?
Multiple traits are present in the same crop variety
Traits are layered onto the soil
Traits are stacked in a lab container
Traits are stacked by time of planting
Explanation - Stacking refers to combining several engineered traits into one plant line.
Correct answer is: Multiple traits are present in the same crop variety
Q.26 Which of these statements is true about the safety assessment of GMOs?
They are considered safe by default without testing
They require the same safety testing as conventional foods
They are only tested for environmental impact, not food safety
They do not require any testing if used for animals
Explanation - GMOs undergo rigorous safety tests, including nutritional and allergenic assessments.
Correct answer is: They require the same safety testing as conventional foods
Q.27 Which of the following is a possible benefit of using GMOs in aquaculture?
Higher water usage
Reduced feed conversion ratio
Increased disease susceptibility
Longer time to maturity
Explanation - GM fish may convert feed to body mass more efficiently, lowering feed costs.
Correct answer is: Reduced feed conversion ratio
Q.28 The 'Golden Rice' project faced criticism mainly because:
It was too expensive to produce
It could cause allergic reactions
It was genetically engineered for a nutrient lacking in the rice itself
It was not approved by any regulatory body
Explanation - Critics argued that it was a technology solution for a nutritional problem that could be addressed by diet, not GM.
Correct answer is: It was genetically engineered for a nutrient lacking in the rice itself
Q.29 What is the primary reason for using the herbicide glyphosate with Roundup Ready crops?
To kill weeds that compete with the crop
To increase crop yield directly
To fertilize the soil
To protect the crop from insects
Explanation - Roundup Ready plants are engineered to survive glyphosate, allowing farmers to spray weeds without harming the crop.
Correct answer is: To kill weeds that compete with the crop
Q.30 Which of the following is an example of a GMO used for medical purposes?
Bt corn
Genetically engineered milk
GM soybeans
GM wheat
Explanation - Certain dairy cattle have been genetically modified to produce therapeutic proteins in their milk.
Correct answer is: Genetically engineered milk
Q.31 Which of these is NOT a typical method for delivering foreign DNA into plant cells?
Particle bombardment
Electroporation
Aerosol spraying
Microinjection
Explanation - Aerosol spraying is not a standard technique for gene delivery in plants.
Correct answer is: Aerosol spraying
Q.32 Which of the following best explains why some countries ban GM crops?
Concerns over patent infringement
High cost of GM seeds
Uncertainty about long-term environmental effects
Lack of consumer interest
Explanation - Regulatory bans often stem from concerns about ecological impacts and food safety.
Correct answer is: Uncertainty about long-term environmental effects
Q.33 Which of the following is a potential health concern associated with GM foods?
They contain harmful levels of radiation
They may cause unintended allergies
They are inherently toxic
They always have more calories
Explanation - One of the main concerns is that new proteins could trigger allergic reactions.
Correct answer is: They may cause unintended allergies
Q.34 Which gene is commonly used to produce pest resistance in Bt cotton?
Cry1Ac
BtZein
Cry3A
Cry1B
Explanation - Cry1Ac encodes a protein from Bacillus thuringiensis that is toxic to certain insects.
Correct answer is: Cry1Ac
Q.35 The concept of 'moral hazard' in GMO regulation refers to:
The risk that companies will ignore safety protocols
The risk that GMOs will replace natural species
The risk that consumers will ignore labeling
The risk that GM crops will be too expensive
Explanation - Moral hazard suggests entities may act recklessly when they believe they are insulated from consequences.
Correct answer is: The risk that companies will ignore safety protocols
Q.36 Which of the following is an advantage of using marker-free transformation in plants?
It speeds up the transformation process
It reduces regulatory hurdles for commercialization
It ensures the transgene is expressed in all tissues
It guarantees the transgene will be stable
Explanation - Marker-free plants lack selectable marker genes, simplifying approval for food use.
Correct answer is: It reduces regulatory hurdles for commercialization
Q.37 Which of the following best describes 'public perception' of GMOs?
Uniformly positive across all cultures
Uniformly negative across all cultures
Varies significantly based on cultural, educational, and informational contexts
Has no impact on policy
Explanation - Public attitudes toward GMOs differ widely around the world.
Correct answer is: Varies significantly based on cultural, educational, and informational contexts
Q.38 What is the primary purpose of a 'biosafety level' classification for GMO research?
To designate the cost of the research
To specify containment and safety protocols
To indicate the speed of research
To label the product for marketing
Explanation - Biosafety levels dictate the required safety measures for handling GMOs.
Correct answer is: To specify containment and safety protocols
Q.39 Which of these is a potential risk of horizontal gene transfer in GMOs?
Genes may transfer from GM crop to soil microbes
Genes may increase crop height
Genes may become more stable in the genome
Genes may reduce the need for fertilizers
Explanation - Horizontal gene transfer can potentially spread engineered genes to microorganisms.
Correct answer is: Genes may transfer from GM crop to soil microbes
Q.40 What does 'gene editing' differ from traditional genetic modification?
Gene editing only deletes genes, while GM only adds new ones
Gene editing can precisely modify or delete existing genes without adding foreign DNA
GM always uses CRISPR, whereas gene editing does not
There is no difference
Explanation - Gene editing alters native DNA sequences; GM often introduces foreign sequences.
Correct answer is: Gene editing can precisely modify or delete existing genes without adding foreign DNA
Q.41 Which of the following is a key environmental benefit claimed for GM crops?
Reduced pesticide application
Increased soil erosion
Higher fertilizer requirement
Longer cultivation cycles
Explanation - Pest-resistant GM crops can lower the need for chemical pesticides.
Correct answer is: Reduced pesticide application
Q.42 Which of the following is a main criticism of the use of glyphosate in GM crops?
It causes immediate crop failure
It is not effective against weeds
It may lead to the evolution of glyphosate-resistant weeds
It is too expensive for farmers
Explanation - Overuse of glyphosate can select for resistant weed populations.
Correct answer is: It may lead to the evolution of glyphosate-resistant weeds
Q.43 Which of these is a primary reason for developing drought-tolerant GM maize?
To increase sweetness
To improve nitrogen fixation
To enable crop production under limited water
To produce higher oil content
Explanation - Drought tolerance helps maintain yields when water is scarce.
Correct answer is: To enable crop production under limited water
Q.44 Which of the following best describes a 'transgene'?
A gene that has been naturally mutated
A gene that has been moved from one species to another
A gene that is silenced
A gene that is deleted from the genome
Explanation - A transgene is foreign DNA introduced into an organism from another species.
Correct answer is: A gene that has been moved from one species to another
Q.45 Which of the following is an example of a 'cisgenic' modification in plants?
Introducing a bacterial gene for insect resistance
Adding a plant gene from the same species to increase yield
Inserting a gene from a fish to produce vitamin D
Inserting a viral gene for disease resistance
Explanation - Cisgenic modifications use genes from closely related species.
Correct answer is: Adding a plant gene from the same species to increase yield
Q.46 Which of the following is NOT an objective of GMO development in agriculture?
Increasing nutritional content
Enhancing flavor profiles
Reducing pest damage
Increasing pesticide toxicity
Explanation - GMOs aim to reduce pesticide use, not increase toxicity.
Correct answer is: Increasing pesticide toxicity
Q.47 Which of the following is a commonly used selectable marker gene in plant transformation?
nptII
cry1Ab
gfp
hrpA
Explanation - The nptII gene confers resistance to kanamycin, used as a selectable marker.
Correct answer is: nptII
Q.48 The 'Open-Label' studies in GM crop risk assessment are designed to:
Test the crop in secret
Compare GM crops to non-GM counterparts without bias
Label the GM product for consumers
Hide the GM nature from regulators
Explanation - Open-label studies are transparent comparisons to assess safety.
Correct answer is: Compare GM crops to non-GM counterparts without bias
Q.49 Which of these is a potential unintended effect of overexpressing a gene in a plant?
Improved resistance to all pests
Enhanced photosynthetic rate
Altered growth patterns or yield
Universal resistance to all diseases
Explanation - Overexpression can disrupt normal plant physiology, affecting growth.
Correct answer is: Altered growth patterns or yield
Q.50 Which of the following best explains the term 'event' in GMO terminology?
The day the GMO was first cultivated
The specific genetic construct introduced into the plant
The year when a GMO was approved
The environmental impact assessment
Explanation - An event is a unique genetic insertion that can be tracked and regulated.
Correct answer is: The specific genetic construct introduced into the plant
Q.51 Which of the following is a major advantage of using a 'gene drive' in pest control?
It permanently eliminates the pest species
It spreads a desired gene through the pest population rapidly
It reduces the need for pesticides
It ensures pest resistance for all crops
Explanation - Gene drives bias inheritance, allowing traits to spread quickly.
Correct answer is: It spreads a desired gene through the pest population rapidly
Q.52 The 'Bt toxin' used in GM crops is derived from which organism?
Bacillus thuringiensis
Escherichia coli
Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Explanation - Bt toxins come from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, which is toxic to certain insects.
Correct answer is: Bacillus thuringiensis
Q.53 Which of the following is an argument used by proponents of GM crops to reduce pesticide use?
GM crops produce more pesticide residue
GM crops are resistant to pests, reducing the need for insecticides
GM crops require more frequent pesticide applications
GM crops increase pesticide toxicity
Explanation - Pest-resistant GM varieties can lower pesticide usage.
Correct answer is: GM crops are resistant to pests, reducing the need for insecticides
Q.54 Which of the following best describes the main goal of 'bioremediation' using GM organisms?
Producing food from waste
Using organisms to clean up environmental pollutants
Generating electricity from waste
Increasing soil fertility with synthetic fertilizers
Explanation - Bioremediation employs GM microbes to degrade toxic substances.
Correct answer is: Using organisms to clean up environmental pollutants
Q.55 Which of the following best explains why some scientists advocate for 'non-GMO' labeling?
To increase the price of GM foods
Because GM foods are inherently unsafe
To give consumers the choice and increase transparency
Because GM labeling is illegal
Explanation - Labeling supports informed consumer decisions.
Correct answer is: To give consumers the choice and increase transparency
Q.56 Which of the following is an example of an 'event' in the regulatory context?
The year a GMO was approved
A specific transgene insertion event (e.g., MON 810)
The date of a public hearing
The patent expiration date
Explanation - Regulatory agencies track events as unique GM events.
Correct answer is: A specific transgene insertion event (e.g., MON 810)
Q.57 What does the term 'gene silencing' refer to?
The process of deleting a gene entirely
The reduction of a gene’s expression at the RNA level
The insertion of a new gene
The overexpression of a gene
Explanation - Gene silencing often involves RNA interference mechanisms.
Correct answer is: The reduction of a gene’s expression at the RNA level
Q.58 Which of the following best defines 'biosafety assessment'?
Assessing the taste of a GMO
Determining the environmental and health impacts of a GMO
Testing the color of a GMO
Evaluating the marketing potential
Explanation - Biosafety assessment evaluates potential risks to humans and ecosystems.
Correct answer is: Determining the environmental and health impacts of a GMO
Q.59 Which of the following is a reason for using marker-free GM plants?
They grow faster
They have fewer regulatory concerns for food use
They are more resistant to pests
They contain more transgenes
Explanation - Marker-free plants avoid antibiotic resistance genes that regulators scrutinize.
Correct answer is: They have fewer regulatory concerns for food use
Q.60 Which of the following is a typical concern of GMO intellectual property rights?
Seeds being too cheap
Seed sovereignty and farmer seed saving practices
Reduced crop yields
Increased pesticide use
Explanation - Patents can restrict farmers from saving or exchanging seeds.
Correct answer is: Seed sovereignty and farmer seed saving practices
Q.61 Which of the following is a commonly used promoter in plant GM constructs?
CaMV 35S
T7
T3
β-lactamase
Explanation - The Cauliflower Mosaic Virus 35S promoter is widely used to drive gene expression in plants.
Correct answer is: CaMV 35S
Q.62 Which of the following best describes the 'gene editing' approach known as 'base editing'?
Editing entire gene sequences
Replacing genes with foreign DNA
Directly converting one DNA base pair to another without double-strand breaks
Adding antibiotic resistance genes
Explanation - Base editing allows precise point mutations without cutting DNA.
Correct answer is: Directly converting one DNA base pair to another without double-strand breaks
Q.63 Which of the following is a primary reason for breeding GM crops with high protein content?
To increase crop yield
To improve nutritional value for livestock and humans
To reduce soil erosion
To decrease pest resistance
Explanation - Higher protein content can enhance the feed value of crops.
Correct answer is: To improve nutritional value for livestock and humans
Q.64 Which of these best illustrates a public misunderstanding about GMOs?
GMOs are always cheaper than non-GM crops
GMOs always have higher yields
GMOs are made by adding foreign genes
All of the above
Explanation - Public misconceptions often include cost and yield beliefs.
Correct answer is: All of the above
Q.65 Which of the following is a recognized advantage of using GMOs in aquaculture?
Decreased growth rates
Improved feed conversion efficiency
Higher disease susceptibility
Increased oxygen consumption
Explanation - GM fish can convert feed into body mass more efficiently, reducing feed costs.
Correct answer is: Improved feed conversion efficiency
Q.66 Which of the following best describes the process of 'Agrobacterium-mediated transformation'?
Direct injection of DNA into plant cells
Using a bacterium to transfer DNA into plant cells
Bombarding plant cells with particles
Using a viral vector to infect plants
Explanation - Agrobacterium tumefaciens naturally transfers T-DNA into plant genomes.
Correct answer is: Using a bacterium to transfer DNA into plant cells
Q.67 Which of the following is a concern about the long-term use of herbicide-tolerant GM crops?
They become more nutritious over time
Herbicide-resistant weeds may develop
They reduce soil fertility permanently
They eliminate the need for irrigation
Explanation - Continuous use of the same herbicide can select for resistant weeds.
Correct answer is: Herbicide-resistant weeds may develop
Q.68 What is the primary advantage of using a 'selectable marker gene' during plant transformation?
To produce a visible phenotype in plants
To allow selection of cells that have integrated the desired transgene
To reduce the cost of transformation
To increase the size of the transgene
Explanation - Selectable markers enable researchers to identify successfully transformed cells.
Correct answer is: To allow selection of cells that have integrated the desired transgene
Q.69 Which of these best explains why GM crops might reduce carbon emissions?
They require more fertilizer use
They can increase yields per acre, reducing land use
They produce more waste
They are more water-intensive
Explanation - Higher yields mean less land needed to produce the same food quantity, reducing emissions.
Correct answer is: They can increase yields per acre, reducing land use
Q.70 Which of the following best defines the 'biosynthetic pathway' in genetic engineering?
A series of chemical reactions in the lab
The natural metabolic route a cell uses to produce a compound
The route used by bacteria to synthesize antibiotics
The method for synthesizing DNA in a machine
Explanation - Biosynthetic pathways involve enzymes producing compounds like beta-carotene.
Correct answer is: The natural metabolic route a cell uses to produce a compound
Q.71 Which of the following is a potential negative effect of overusing GM crops engineered for drought tolerance?
Reduced genetic diversity in the crop population
Lower crop yields in all climates
Increased need for irrigation
All of the above
Explanation - Widespread adoption can reduce genetic variability, making crops vulnerable.
Correct answer is: Reduced genetic diversity in the crop population
Q.72 Which of the following is a common method for ensuring GM crops do not spread to non-target species?
Using species-specific promoters
Applying chemical inhibitors
Avoiding field trials altogether
Increasing seed size
Explanation - Species-specific promoters limit expression to intended tissues or species.
Correct answer is: Using species-specific promoters
Q.73 Which of the following best describes the term 'CRISPR' in the context of GMOs?
A type of transgenic virus
A gene editing system that uses a guide RNA to target specific DNA sequences
A method of producing GM bacteria
A regulatory agency
Explanation - CRISPR-Cas9 uses guide RNA to direct the Cas9 nuclease to a specific site in the genome.
Correct answer is: A gene editing system that uses a guide RNA to target specific DNA sequences
Q.74 Which of the following best explains the term 'stacked traits' in GM crop breeding?
Multiple traits combined into a single crop variety
A stack of seeds for planting
Multiple crops planted in a row
Traits that are stacked on top of each other in a greenhouse
Explanation - Stacking allows a crop to have several engineered traits, such as insect resistance and herbicide tolerance.
Correct answer is: Multiple traits combined into a single crop variety
Q.75 Which of the following is a typical step in a regulatory approval process for a GM food product?
Public vote by the entire country
Laboratory safety testing, field trials, and dossier submission to regulatory authorities
Selling the product on the market before any testing
Immediate release to the public after lab work
Explanation - Regulatory approval involves thorough testing and documentation.
Correct answer is: Laboratory safety testing, field trials, and dossier submission to regulatory authorities
Q.76 Which of the following is a potential environmental risk of GM plants producing Bt toxin?
It may harm non-target organisms like beneficial insects
It increases soil fertility
It reduces plant height
It eliminates the need for water
Explanation - Bt toxins can affect organisms other than the target pests.
Correct answer is: It may harm non-target organisms like beneficial insects
Q.77 Which of these is a key principle in the 'precautionary principle' regarding GMOs?
Regulation is unnecessary if GMOs show benefits
If the risk is unknown, proceed with caution
All GMOs are automatically approved
Regulation should be minimal
Explanation - The precautionary principle advises careful regulation when potential risks are uncertain.
Correct answer is: If the risk is unknown, proceed with caution
Q.78 Which of the following best explains how a gene drive could impact pest populations?
By making pests immune to GM crops
By rapidly spreading a gene that reduces pest fertility
By increasing pest population density
By making pests resistant to pesticides
Explanation - Gene drives can bias inheritance, spreading traits that suppress pest reproduction.
Correct answer is: By rapidly spreading a gene that reduces pest fertility
Q.79 Which of the following is a recognized method for reducing the potential for GM crop gene flow to wild relatives?
Using self-pollinating crops
Implementing isolation distances
Planting GM crops in high-altitude areas
All of the above
Explanation - Multiple strategies help limit gene flow.
Correct answer is: All of the above
Q.80 Which of the following best describes the 'biosafety assessment' of GM foods?
Testing for taste and color
Assessing potential adverse health and environmental impacts
Measuring the growth rate of the crop
Determining market price
Explanation - Biosafety focuses on health and environmental safety of GMOs.
Correct answer is: Assessing potential adverse health and environmental impacts
Q.81 Which of the following is an example of a GM crop that is engineered to produce a human protein?
GM corn that produces insulin
GM rice that produces vitamin B12
GM soy that produces gluten
GM wheat that produces starch
Explanation - Biopharming crops can produce therapeutic proteins in edible plants.
Correct answer is: GM corn that produces insulin
Q.82 Which of the following is a primary concern of the 'public trust' in GMOs?
Unclear labeling practices
Lack of transparency in research and regulation
High cost of GM seeds
All of the above
Explanation - Transparency is critical for maintaining public trust.
Correct answer is: Lack of transparency in research and regulation
Q.83 Which of these is a key reason for using a promoter like CaMV 35S in GM plant constructs?
To drive ubiquitous gene expression in plants
To restrict expression to roots
To silence genes
To increase DNA stability
Explanation - CaMV 35S is a strong, constitutive promoter used in plant expression.
Correct answer is: To drive ubiquitous gene expression in plants
Q.84 Which of the following is an example of a potential health benefit of a GM crop?
Enhanced vitamin content in staple foods
Increased pesticide residues
Reduced nutritional value
Higher sugar content
Explanation - Nutrient-enhanced GM crops can address deficiencies.
Correct answer is: Enhanced vitamin content in staple foods
Q.85 Which of the following statements best describes the regulatory stance of the European Union on GMOs?
Strictly banned all GMOs
Allows GMOs only if they have a clear benefit and pass safety tests
No regulation exists for GMOs
Encourages free use of GMOs
Explanation - The EU has a precautionary approach, allowing GMOs under stringent conditions.
Correct answer is: Allows GMOs only if they have a clear benefit and pass safety tests
Q.86 Which of the following is a potential risk of using GMOs in livestock?
They may be more susceptible to disease
They may have unpredictable health effects
They may have higher fertility
They always improve meat quality
Explanation - GM livestock may exhibit unforeseen health or welfare issues.
Correct answer is: They may have unpredictable health effects
Q.87 Which of the following best describes the term 'transgene expression level'?
The amount of foreign DNA present in the genome
The degree to which the inserted gene is active and produces its protein
The number of copies of the transgene
The color of the plant
Explanation - Expression level refers to how much product the transgene generates.
Correct answer is: The degree to which the inserted gene is active and produces its protein
Q.88 Which of the following is a commonly used selection marker for plant transformation?
GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein)
nptII (Neomycin phosphotransferase II)
RFP (Red Fluorescent Protein)
CaMV 35S promoter
Explanation - nptII confers resistance to kanamycin and is used as a selectable marker.
Correct answer is: nptII (Neomycin phosphotransferase II)
Q.89 Which of the following best describes the concept of 'gene drive'?
A method to increase gene expression
A mechanism that spreads a particular gene through a population rapidly
A tool to remove genes from a genome
A process of randomly mutating genes
Explanation - Gene drives bias inheritance to disseminate desired genes quickly.
Correct answer is: A mechanism that spreads a particular gene through a population rapidly
Q.90 Which of the following is a potential environmental benefit of GM crops with improved nitrogen-use efficiency?
They require more fertilizer application
They reduce nitrate runoff into waterways
They increase soil erosion
They decrease crop yield
Explanation - More efficient nitrogen use means less fertilizer loss to the environment.
Correct answer is: They reduce nitrate runoff into waterways
Q.91 Which of the following is a reason for using 'self-incompatibility' in GM plant breeding?
To prevent self-pollination and increase genetic diversity
To ensure the plant can self-pollinate easily
To increase seed size
To make the plant more disease-resistant
Explanation - Self-incompatibility promotes outcrossing, maintaining diversity.
Correct answer is: To prevent self-pollination and increase genetic diversity
Q.92 Which of the following best describes the term 'monophasic' in GMO regulatory context?
The GMO has only one transgene insertion event
The GMO is safe for all consumers
The GMO contains multiple transgenes
The GMO is only used for one season
Explanation - A monophasic event has a single insertion event that is tracked.
Correct answer is: The GMO has only one transgene insertion event
Q.93 Which of the following best explains how a 'selectable marker' helps identify GM plants?
It causes visible color change
It confers resistance to a selective agent like antibiotics or herbicides
It increases the growth rate
It changes the plant's shape
Explanation - Only plants with the marker survive in the presence of the selective agent.
Correct answer is: It confers resistance to a selective agent like antibiotics or herbicides
Q.94 Which of the following is an example of a potential societal concern regarding GM crops?
Increased farmer dependence on patented seeds
Decreased market price for GM seeds
Increased diversity of seed varieties
Decreased need for regulatory oversight
Explanation - Patented seeds can lock farmers into paying royalties or purchasing new seeds each season.
Correct answer is: Increased farmer dependence on patented seeds
Q.95 Which of the following best describes the term 'biosynthetic pathway' in plants?
A series of steps that convert simple molecules into complex compounds like vitamins or pigments
A method for delivering genes into plant cells
A regulatory pathway for approving GM crops
A pathway for plant growth regulation
Explanation - Biosynthetic pathways involve enzymes that produce beneficial compounds.
Correct answer is: A series of steps that convert simple molecules into complex compounds like vitamins or pigments
Q.96 Which of the following best explains why GM crops can lead to higher yields?
They produce more pests
They are engineered to resist pests and diseases and require fewer inputs
They have larger leaves that absorb more sunlight
They grow slower to conserve energy
Explanation - Resistant crops reduce losses and input costs, boosting overall yield.
Correct answer is: They are engineered to resist pests and diseases and require fewer inputs
Q.97 Which of the following is a primary reason for using GM crops with high protein content?
To improve feed efficiency for livestock
To reduce crop yields
To increase the cost of production
To decrease the nutritional value for humans
Explanation - Higher protein content benefits livestock nutrition and reduces feed costs.
Correct answer is: To improve feed efficiency for livestock
Q.98 Which of the following best illustrates a common misconception about GMOs?
All GMOs are always harmful to humans
GMOs are cheaper than non-GMO crops
GMOs are produced using natural cross-breeding
All of the above
Explanation - Public misconceptions include harmfulness, cost, and production methods.
Correct answer is: All of the above
Q.99 Which of the following is a recognized benefit of GM crops in aquaculture?
They require more feed per kilogram of fish
They improve feed conversion ratios
They increase susceptibility to disease
They reduce water quality
Explanation - GM fish can convert feed into body mass more efficiently, reducing costs.
Correct answer is: They improve feed conversion ratios
Q.100 Which of the following best describes a 'gene silencing' mechanism?
The complete deletion of a gene
The reduction of a gene's expression via RNA interference
The addition of a new gene
The overexpression of a gene
Explanation - RNAi can suppress the activity of specific genes.
Correct answer is: The reduction of a gene's expression via RNA interference
Q.101 Which of the following is an argument in favor of labeling GM foods?
It decreases consumer trust
It provides transparency and allows consumers to make informed choices
It increases production costs
It eliminates all risks of GMOs
Explanation - Labeling is seen as a way to inform and empower consumers.
Correct answer is: It provides transparency and allows consumers to make informed choices
Q.102 Which of the following best explains the term 'transgene insertion site'?
The location where a transgene is inserted in the host genome
The time of day a gene is inserted
The method used for insertion
The color of the transgene
Explanation - The insertion site can affect expression and safety assessments.
Correct answer is: The location where a transgene is inserted in the host genome
Q.103 Which of the following is a major concern regarding the long-term use of herbicide-tolerant GM crops?
They will always increase yields
They may lead to the development of herbicide-resistant weeds
They reduce the need for irrigation
They have no impact on the environment
Explanation - Repeated use can select for weeds that survive the same herbicide.
Correct answer is: They may lead to the development of herbicide-resistant weeds
Q.104 Which of the following best describes a 'marker-free' GM plant?
A plant that does not contain any selectable markers after the transgene integration
A plant that has a fluorescent marker for easy identification
A plant that expresses only the marker gene
A plant that has a marker that prevents expression
Explanation - Marker-free plants have had the marker gene removed, simplifying approval.
Correct answer is: A plant that does not contain any selectable markers after the transgene integration
Q.105 Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'horizontal gene transfer' in the context of GM crops?
Genes transferring from a GM plant to a soil microbe
Genes moving within the genome of the same organism
Genes being passed from parent to offspring
Genes being transferred between human cells
Explanation - Horizontal gene transfer can occur between plants and microbes in the environment.
Correct answer is: Genes transferring from a GM plant to a soil microbe
Q.106 Which of the following is a key advantage of using the CaMV 35S promoter in GM plant constructs?
It drives tissue-specific expression
It provides a strong, constitutive expression in many plant tissues
It silences the transgene
It reduces transgene stability
Explanation - CaMV 35S is widely used because of its strong, ubiquitous expression.
Correct answer is: It provides a strong, constitutive expression in many plant tissues
Q.107 Which of the following best describes a potential risk of GM crops with enhanced vitamin content?
They may reduce the taste of the crop
They may cause allergic reactions if the new protein is unfamiliar to consumers
They may become too expensive to produce
They may reduce the crop's shelf life
Explanation - Introducing new proteins can raise the possibility of allergenicity.
Correct answer is: They may cause allergic reactions if the new protein is unfamiliar to consumers
Q.108 Which of the following is an example of a potential benefit of using GM crops for drought tolerance?
Reduced water usage per unit of crop yield
Increased pesticide usage
Higher soil erosion rates
Longer planting season
Explanation - Drought-tolerant crops can maintain productivity with less water.
Correct answer is: Reduced water usage per unit of crop yield
Q.109 Which of the following best illustrates a common misconception about GMOs in the media?
They are always harmful to humans
They are more expensive than non-GM products
They are produced by natural cross-breeding
All of the above
Explanation - Media coverage often perpetuates myths about safety, cost, and production methods.
Correct answer is: All of the above
Q.110 Which of the following is a common regulatory approach for approving GM crops?
A single test of genetic modification
A comprehensive risk assessment covering environmental and health aspects
Random field testing with no regulatory oversight
Direct market release without testing
Explanation - Regulatory bodies require thorough testing before approval.
Correct answer is: A comprehensive risk assessment covering environmental and health aspects
Q.111 Which of the following is a key feature of a gene drive system?
It increases the plant's height
It ensures that a specific gene is inherited more often than by chance alone
It reduces the plant's susceptibility to disease
It eliminates all genes in the genome
Explanation - Gene drives bias inheritance patterns to spread a trait rapidly.
Correct answer is: It ensures that a specific gene is inherited more often than by chance alone
Q.112 Which of the following best describes a 'selectable marker gene'?
A gene that confers a visible trait like color
A gene that allows for identification of cells that have successfully integrated a transgene by providing resistance to a selection agent
A gene that increases growth rate
A gene that silences other genes
Explanation - Selectable markers enable researchers to isolate transformed cells.
Correct answer is: A gene that allows for identification of cells that have successfully integrated a transgene by providing resistance to a selection agent
Q.113 Which of the following best describes the 'biosynthetic pathway' for beta-carotene in plants?
A process by which plants convert nitrogen into beta-carotene
A set of enzymatic reactions that convert precursor molecules into beta-carotene, a vitamin A precursor
The pathway by which plants absorb light
The process of photosynthesis
Explanation - The beta-carotene biosynthetic pathway is used to create Golden Rice.
Correct answer is: A set of enzymatic reactions that convert precursor molecules into beta-carotene, a vitamin A precursor