Multiple choice

Directions: For this question, select the best of the answer choices given.

Caterpillars of all species produce an identical hormone called “juvenile hormone” that maintains feeding behavior. Only when a caterpillar has grown to the right size for pupation to take place does a special enzyme halt the production of juvenile hormone. This enzyme can be synthesized and will, on being ingested by immature caterpillars, kill them by stopping them from feeding. Which of the following, if true, most strongly supports the view that it would not be advisable to try to eradicate agricultural pests that go through a caterpillar stage by spraying croplands with the enzyme mentioned above?

  1. Most species of caterpillar are subject to some natural predation.

  2. Many agricultural pests do not go through a caterpillar stage.

  3. Many agriculturally beneficial insects go through a caterpillar stage.

  4. Since caterpillars of different species emerge at different times, several sprayings would be necessary.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The enzyme kills ALL caterpillars by stopping them from feeding. If beneficial insects like pollinators also have caterpillar stages, spraying would destroy them along with pests, causing more ecological damage than benefit. This collateral harm makes the spraying strategy inadvisable despite its effectiveness against target pests.

Keep practicing — related questions