What is one potential benefit of using CRISPR-Cas9 in crop production?

Using CRISPR-Cas9 in crop production offers several potential benefits, one of which is the ability to avoid photorespiration. Photorespiration is a process that occurs when plants take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, which can reduce the efficiency of photosynthesis and overall plant productivity. By employing CRISPR-Cas9 technology, scientists can modify the genetic makeup of crops to enhance photosynthetic efficiency and minimize the occurrence of photorespiration. This leads to increased yields and improved resource use efficiency, which is particularly important as global agricultural demands grow.

While other choices also highlight important aspects of agricultural improvement, they do not match the specific benefits associated with the targeted genetic modifications offered by CRISPR-Cas9 as well as the avoidance of photorespiration does. For instance, reducing water usage and increasing crop size are important goals, but they may require different genetic approaches or technologies rather than solely the application of CRISPR-Cas9 as a focused strategy. Eliminating all pathogens is not a feasible or realistic outcome, as it would overlook ecological balance considerations and the role of beneficial microorganisms. Therefore, the avoidance of photorespiration stands out as a direct, advantageous application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in enhancing crop efficiency and productivity