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Baculoviruses used in biocontrol have a narrow host range. This property is advantageous because it means they are what?

  • A Highly effective against essentially all agricultural pest species simultaneously and equally
  • B Safe for use in integrated pest management without harming beneficial insects, birds, and mammals
  • C Able to persist for considerably longer periods within the surrounding environment overall
  • D Capable of being manufactured more cheaply than synthetic chemical pesticides generally

Correct answer: B. Safe for use in integrated pest management without harming beneficial insects, birds, and mammals

Explanation: The narrow host specificity of baculoviruses means they affect only the target pest species, leaving beneficial insects (pollinators, natural predators), birds, mammals, and humans unharmed, making them ideal for integrated pest management.

Concept context

Microorganisms in food, medicine, sewage treatment, biocontrol, and biofertilizers

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