Which is a purpose of genetically modifying organisms in agriculture?

• A. Increased crop yields
• B. Increased drought tolerance
• C. Higher harvest losses
• D. Greater resilience to pests

Answer: (A)

Genetic modification in agriculture is used to boost the amount of food produced per unit area by helping crops grow more reliably and efficiently. The most direct and broad aim is to increase crop yields, since higher yields mean more harvests from the same land and resources. Traits such as drought tolerance and pest resistance are common ways to achieve that goal because they help crops survive stress and resist damage, preserving or increasing yields. Aiming for higher harvest losses would run opposite to the purpose of GMOs, so it isn’t a goal.