Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding biopesticides? 1. They are not hazardous to human health. 2. They are persistent in environment. 3. They are essential to maintain the biodiversity of any ecosystem. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Why the answer is (a)
• Statement 1 is correct because biopesticides are derived from natural materials like animals, plants, bacteria, or minerals, making them generally non-toxic and safe for human health compared to synthetic chemicals.
• Statement 2 is incorrect because biopesticides are characterized by their rapid biodegradability and short half-life, meaning they are not persistent in the environment.
• Statement 3 is incorrect because while biopesticides are eco-friendly, they are not 'essential' for maintaining ecosystem biodiversity; biodiversity is maintained by natural ecological processes, not by the application of pest control agents.
• Since only Statement 1 is factually accurate, option (a) is the correct answer.
Why the other options are wrong
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- Option (b) is incorrect because biopesticides are biodegradable and not persistent in the environment.
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- Option (c) is incorrect because biopesticides are not essential for maintaining the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Option (d) is incorrect because both statements 2 and 3 are false regarding the properties and role of biopesticides.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2017, held on 18 June 2017. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.