In a study in China, several different varieties of rice were planted in the same field.Crop yields increased by 89 percent compared with fields with a single variety of rice.This occurred because there was a dramatic decrease in disease and the fields remained stable without using pesticides.In addition, the system increased local biodiversity.This is an example of a(n) _______ showing greater productivity and stability than a(n) _______.
A) monoculture; polyculture
B) polyculture; monoculture
C) natural community; agricultural community
D) agricultural community; natural community
E) polyculture; natural community

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This scenario describes the benefits of polyculture, where multiple varieties of rice are planted in the same field. This is shown to increase productivity, stability, and biodiversity through reduced disease and the absence of pesticides. Monoculture, where only one variety of rice is planted, is less productive and less stable in comparison. Therefore, option B (polyculture; monoculture) is the best choice.

In a Study in China, Several Different Varieties of Rice