Question

In Bt cotton, the Bt toxin present in plant tissue as protoxin is converted into active toxin due to:

• A. presence of conversion factors in the insect gut
• B. alkaline pH of the insect gut
• C. acidic pH of the insect gut
• D. the action of gut microorganisms

Answer 1

The correct option is B alkaline pH of the insect gut

In Bt cotton, the Bt toxin present in plant tissue as protoxin is converted into active toxin due to the alkali pH in the insect gut and becomes active. The toxins then attack the gut cells of the insect, punching holes in the lining leading to their death.