BT CORN Meaning and
Definition
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Bt corn refers to a genetically modified (GM) variety of corn, scientifically known as Zea mays, which has been engineered to produce a toxin derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This particular strain of corn has been modified to contain genes from the soil bacteria Bt, resulting in the production of proteins called Bt toxins or Cry proteins. These proteins are toxic to certain pests that commonly feed on corn crops, especially specific types of insects like corn borers and corn earworms.
The purpose of introducing Bt toxins into the genetic makeup of corn is to provide inherent pest resistance, reducing the need for synthetic chemical insecticides and promoting more sustainable farming practices. When insects ingest the Bt toxin present in the corn, the protein specifically targets their guts, resulting in the breakdown of the cells and ultimately causing death. By incorporating the Bt genes into corn plants, farmers can help protect their crops from insect damage, leading to increased crop yields and potentially improved profitability.
Bt corn has been commercially available since the mid-1990s, and it has gained widespread use particularly in regions where insect pests pose a significant threat to corn crops. The cultivation of Bt corn has been met with both support and criticism, as the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) remains a topic of debate for its potential environmental, health, and socioeconomic impacts.
Etymology of BT CORN
The term "bt corn" is derived from the combination of two different components: "Bt" and "corn".
"Bt" stands for Bacillus thuringiensis, which is a soil-dwelling bacterium. Bacillus thuringiensis produces a protein known as Cry, short for crystal, which is toxic to certain insects. This protein functions as a natural pesticide, targeting specific insect pests without harming other organisms.
"Corn" refers to the widely cultivated cereal crop, known scientifically as Zea mays. Corn is a staple food in many parts of the world and is commonly used for a variety of purposes, including human consumption, animal feed, and industrial applications.
When these two terms are combined, "bt corn" refers to a specific type of corn that has been genetically engineered to express the Cry protein derived from Bacillus thuringiensis.
