Assessment of Effects on Natural Ecosystems
Assessing effects of adopting transgenic maize on natural ecosystems in Mexico depends on obtaining information that can reliably detect changes in natural ecosystems in Mexico and on comparing such information to existing baseline agricultural practices in Mexico. Appropriate baseline comparisons in Mexico will vary due to the diversity of production systems that exist. Similarly, the choice of what indicators to use to detect changes in natural ecosystems will vary due to the diversity of ecosystems in Mexico. Although different ecosystems have general similarities in function (e.g., nutrient cycling, energy flow) and categories of goods and services (water purification, decomposition, pest control, pollination, foods, fuel, fibers and drugs), the specific factors or combinations of factors that affect ecosystem function may vary regionally depending on characteristics of biodiversity. At least four factors associated with biodiversity may affect ecosystems: what species are present, how many individuals of each species, how a species functions within the ecosystem (e.g., energy producer (photosynthetic plant), energy consumer (herbivore, predator, decomposer), and what biological interactions affect species' function(s) within the ecosystem. An assessment of effects of transgenic maize on natural ecosystems must recognize the general uncertainty in predicting the consequences of alterations to populations, species or communities upon ecosystems. Mexico's biological richness is widely recognized as one of the largest in the world. Paralleling this, Mexico has a rich cultural diversity and ancient agricultural history. It is currently recognized as center of origin for as many as 100 crops from which fruit, seeds, roots, condiments, tubers, drugs, textiles, dyestuffs, resins, ornamental plants, and other natural products or services are derived.
| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Texto biblioteca |
| Language: | eng |
| Subjects: | Maíz transgénico, Efectos ecológicos, Ecosistemas, Diversidad biológica, Cambio climático, |
| Online Access: | http://www.cec.org/files/pdf//Maize-Biodiversity-Chapter4_en.pdf |
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