Wheat plants are often grown in large areas as a monoculture.
What is a negative environmental impact of this method of farming?
A) The variety of species in the area is reduced.
B) Fewer types of pesticide are needed.
C) Larger harvests can be produced.
D) Specialist machinery can be used.
▶️ Answer/Explanation
Ans: A
Monoculture farming involves growing a single crop species over a large area, which leads to biodiversity loss (A) as it eliminates habitats for other species. While options B, C, and D describe potential benefits or neutral aspects of monoculture, only A highlights a significant environmental drawback. The reduction in species variety disrupts ecosystems and makes them more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
What is an advantage of growing crops as a large-scale monoculture?
A) Biodiversity is increased.
B) Genetic variation is increased.
C) Water use is increased.
D) Yield of the crop is increased.
▶️ Answer/Explanation
Ans: D
Monoculture farming involves growing a single crop species over a large area. The primary advantage is increased yield (D), as it allows for standardized planting, maintenance, and harvesting techniques optimized for that specific crop.
Options A and B are incorrect because monoculture reduces biodiversity and genetic variation. Option C describes a potential drawback (higher water demand), not an advantage. Thus, the correct answer is D (Yield of the crop is increased).