In 1997 a genetically modified corn was introduced in the U.S. A
gene for a toxin (Bt toxin) was inserted into the corn plants (then
known as Bt corn). The Bt toxin was known to kill the corn borer
insect but is harmless to people and most other animals. The corn
borer is the most damaging pest for corn crops. In a Bt corn plant,
the Bt toxin is produced in the plant and kills the insects almost
immediately after the insect eats the corn. The goal of this
genetic engineering project was to increase crop yield and decrease
pesticide use. Bt corn use has increased exponentially since 1997.
In 2020, it accounted for 82% of all corn planted in the United
States.
Organic farmers cannot use genetically modified crops. Let’s say
there is an organic farmer growing non-GM corn near a non-organic
farmer who is growing Bt corn. If pollen moves from the Bt corn
population to the organic corn, interbreeding may occur.
Does the above scenario represent migration as an evolutionary
mechanism? Yes or No, and then explain how you know.