How do genetically modified crops affect biodiversity?

Genetically modified crops can have significant effects on biodiversity, particularly by altering ecosystems and impacting indigenous species. The modification of crops can lead to changes in the interactions of these plants with pests, pollinators, and other organisms in the ecosystem. For instance, the introduction of genetically modified crops that are resistant to certain pests can reduce the population of those pests, which may have cascading effects on other species that depend on them for food or ecological roles.

Additionally, genetically modified crops may compete with native plants, potentially leading to a decline in native biodiversity. The introduction of such crops can alter the habitat, making it less hospitable for indigenous flora and fauna. Furthermore, the use of genetically modified crops can potentially lead to gene transfer to wild relatives, which could alter the genetic makeup of wild plant populations. This alteration can impact the resilience and adaptability of ecosystems, thus highlighting the complex relationship between genetically modified organisms and biodiversity.

In contrast, the idea that genetically modified crops never impact biodiversity fails to consider the various ecological interactions and the nuanced effects on different species and habitats. The notion that they can only enhance biodiversity overlooks the potential negative consequences, while the idea that they require a lower diversity of crops does not accurately reflect the broader implications of their introduction into agricultural