'Bt maize' a. is resistant to various herbicides, making it practical to weed rice fields with those herbicides. b. contains transgenes that increase vitamin A content. c. includes bacterial genes that produce a toxin that reduces damage from insect pests. d. is a 'boron (B)-tolerant' transgenic variety of maize.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key term: 'Bt maize' refers to a genetically modified organism (GMO).
2. Understand the function of Bt: Bt stands for Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterium whose genes are used in GMOs to confer resistance to insect pests.
3. Analyze the options: Option c mentions bacterial genes that produce a toxin to reduce insect damage, which aligns with the function of Bt genes.
4. Eliminate other options: Options a, b, and d describe traits unrelated to Bt genes. Option a involves herbicide resistance, option b involves nutrient enhancement (vitamin A), and option d involves tolerance to boron.
5. Conclude the correct answer: Option c is correct because it accurately describes the primary characteristic of Bt maize, which is to include bacterial genes that produce a toxin reducing damage from insect pests.

Key Concepts

Transgenic Organisms

Transgenic organisms are genetically modified to contain genes from other species. This process allows for the introduction of specific traits, such as pest resistance or enhanced nutritional content. In the case of Bt maize, it incorporates genes from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, which enables the plant to produce a toxin that is harmful to certain insect pests.

Bt Toxin

The Bt toxin is a protein produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, which is toxic to specific insects. When incorporated into crops like Bt maize, this toxin helps protect the plants from pest damage, reducing the need for chemical insecticides. This biological control method is considered an environmentally friendly approach to pest management in agriculture.

Herbicide Resistance

Herbicide resistance refers to the ability of a plant to survive and thrive despite the application of herbicides that would normally kill it. While Bt maize is primarily known for its insect resistance, some genetically modified crops are engineered to withstand specific herbicides, allowing farmers to control weeds without harming the crop. This trait enhances agricultural efficiency and crop yield.