There is huge role of biotechnology in agriculture. Role of biotechnology in agriculture become more than ever due to technological advancement in the field of agriculture.
We will discuss it in detail, but let’s know little about biotechnology.
Table of Contents
What is Biotechnology?
Biotechnology is best defined as the use of scientific techniques to improve and alter plants, animals, and Microorganisms’ value. Over the years, biotechnology has found its way to several fields including medicine, agriculture, genetic engineering, etc.
At its simplest, biotechnology is technology based on biology – biotechnology harnesses cellular and biomolecular processes to develop technologies and products that help improve our lives and the health of our planet. We have used the biological processes of microorganisms for more than 6,000 years to make useful food products, such as bread and cheese, and to preserve dairy products
Agricultural Biotechnology
Agricultural biotechnology is a range of tools, including traditional breeding techniques, that alter living organisms, or parts of organisms, to make or modify products; improve plants or animals; or develop microorganisms for specific agricultural uses
Agricultural biotechnology, also known as Agritech, is an area of agricultural science involving the use of scientific tools and techniques, including genetic engineering, molecular markers molecular diagnostics, vaccines, and tissue culture, to modify living organisms: plants, animals, and microorganisms. Crop biotechnology is one aspect of agricultural biotechnology which has been greatly developed upon in recent times.
Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture
One can define agricultural biotechnology as a set of scientific techniques which can improve plants, micro-organisms, and animals based on DNA and its concepts.Arguably the use of biotechnology in agriculture is deemed to be more effective than that of agrochemicals. The latter is believed to be responsible for causing environmental distress and is also somewhat unfeasible for farmers.
The role of biotechnology in agriculture is multifaceted. Some of the most prevalent benefits of biotechnology in agriculture include –
- Increase in Crop Production With better disease control and increased tolerance to drought and flooding, biotechnology leads to a significant increase in crop production. This does not just match the ever-growing demand for food but also helps farmers to lower losses.
- Better crop protection,The techniques of biotechnology serve as cost-effective solutions to problems about pests. Farmers have been able to transform crops like cotton, corn, and potato to synthesize a protein that tackles issues of pests effectively.
Applications of Biotechnology in Agriculture
- Developing better crops with biotechnology.
- Improved Yield from Crops.
- Reduced Vulnerability to Environmental Stresses.
- Increased Nutritional Qualities of Crops.
- Improved Taste, Texture or Appearance of Food.
Conclusion
Learning about the role of Biotechnology in Agriculture can help in understanding the different aspects and how new technology can change the face of agriculture.