Answer :
Final answer:
To genetically engineer Arabidopsis for spider mite resistance, one would introduce genes that confer resistance to spider mites. This is done through biotechnological approaches, such as transformation with specific gene vectors like the Ti plasmid from Agrobacterium tumefaciens.
Explanation:
If one were to genetically engineer the Arabidopsis plant to be resistant to spider mites, the recommended approach would be c) Introduce genes for spider mite resistance. This process involves the identification of specific genes that confer resistance to the pest in question and then using biotechnological methods to insert these genes into the Arabidopsis plant's genome. Methods used to disable or insert genes in Arabidopsis include gene knockout technologies and transformation with plant expression vectors, such as the Ti plasmid system from Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The genes introduced can not only be fragments but also whole genes, which can then integrate with the plant's DNA and confer the desired traits. Arabidopsis mutants that possess these new characteristics are immensely valuable to botanists, as they can reveal important information about gene function and plant responses to various stresses.
In the broader context of genomics in agriculture, this type of genetic engineering can also improve disease resistance and help generate new hybrid strains with beneficial traits like pest and environmental stress resistance. However, while this biotechnological application offers substantial advantages, care must be taken to consider potential ecological impacts, such as gene transfer to weed species or effects on non-target organisms, like pollinators.
