Question

In \(1977,\) Rafael Guzman, a Mexican biologist, discovered a previously unknown wild relative of corn that is resistant to many of the viral diseases that infect domestic corn. Agriculturalists believe that crossbreeding the wild corn with domestic corn could improve current corn crops. In this case, biodiversity is important at which level? a. ecosystem b. species c. genetic d. community e. both a and b

Short answer

The correct answer is c. genetic

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Biodiversity Levels

Biodiversity can occur at several levels, including genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genes within a species. Species diversity refers to the variety of species within a community or ecosystem. Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of habitats available in a region.

Interpret the Information

The given exercise mentions that the wild relative of corn discovered by Rafael Guzman is resistant to many viral diseases that infest domestic corn. Agriculturalists believe that crossbreeding the wild corn with domestic corn can improve the current corn crop.

Match the Information with the Relevant Level of Biodiversity

The noted resistance and anticipated improvement resulting from crossbreeding are an indication of genetic diversity. This diversity, in gene resistance specifically, offers potential to create an enhanced, disease-resistant variant of the domestic corn crop. Therefore, the level of biodiversity that is important in this scenario is at the genetic level.

Key concepts

Genetic Diversity

Consider genetic diversity as the biological equivalent of having an extensive toolbox. Just like a well-stocked toolbox allows a craftsman to tackle various tasks, genetic diversity provides a species with a vast array of genes that help it adapt to different conditions and challenges.

In agriculture, genetic diversity is the variation of inheritable characteristics present within and among crops. It serves as a reservoir for traits that can be used to improve crops, including resistance to diseases, pests, and environmental stresses.

The discovery of a wild relative of corn that can resist viral diseases, like in the case of Rafael Guzman's finding, highlights the importance of genetic diversity. Crossbreeding this wild corn with domestic strains can introduce new resistance genes into the crop, which are crucial for plant survival and productivity. Without such diversity, crops could be more susceptible to widespread disease, potentially leading to food shortages.

Species Diversity

Species diversity refers to the number of different species within an ecosystem and the balance of their populations. It is a measure of the variety of life and is important for a robust and resilient ecosystem.

In an agricultural context, maintaining species diversity can lead to ecosystems that are more productive and stable. Diverse systems are less likely to collapse and are generally more resistant to pests and diseases.

Having a variety of crops and livestock species also spreads the risk; if one species succumbs to a pest or disease, others might resist, ensuring that not all food production is compromised. Beyond direct agricultural benefits, species diversity contributes to the health of the environment, including pollinator populations and soil microbes, which in turn support agricultural productivity.

Ecosystem Diversity

The conversation on biodiversity often extends to the ecosystem level. Ecosystem diversity includes the variety of landscapes, habitats, and ecological processes in the natural world, as well as the diverse species that inhabit them.

In agricultural landscapes, ecosystem diversity can play a critical role in sustainability. Different ecosystems provide various services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, water purification, and erosion control, each being vital to agricultural productivity.

Farming practices that support ecosystem diversity, such as maintaining hedgerows, woodlands, or natural waterways, not only preserve the natural flora and fauna but also benefit agricultural fields by, for example, fostering populations of natural pest predators and enhancing the resilience of the farm to extreme weather events. Ultimately, preserving diverse ecosystems leads to healthier, more resilient agricultural systems.