What is a key benefit of using a GM crop variety?

The key benefit of using a genetically modified (GM) crop variety is its increased yield potential and pest resistance. GM crops have been engineered to express traits that enhance their growth and survival in various environmental conditions. For instance, certain GM crops are designed to be resistant to specific pests, which helps reduce crop loss due to insect damage. This pest resistance not only allows for higher yields but also can lead to a reduced need for chemical pesticides, benefiting both the environment and farmers' economic outcomes.

Furthermore, the genetic modifications can also help improve resistance to diseases or abiotic stresses such as drought or salinity, further contributing to increased yield potential under challenging conditions. This makes GM crops particularly valuable in food production, as higher yields can help meet the demands of a growing population.

The other choices do not adequately capture the realistic benefits of GM crops. For instance, while it's ideal to aim for pest control, no agricultural practice can completely eliminate all pests. Additionally, GM crops do not reduce the need for agriculture as a whole but rather aim to make agricultural practices more efficient and sustainable. Finally, the ability to grow in any soil type is overly simplistic; while some GM crops might have improved adaptability, soil quality and other environmental factors still play a crucial role in crop