Whiteflies Destroy Crops Thanks to a Stolen Plant Gene | SciShow News

Whiteflies have stolen a gene from plants, allowing them to neutralize plant toxins and consume a wide range of crops. This gene, BTP MAT 1, was likely transferred with the help of viruses. Researchers have developed a method to counteract this by using RNA molecules to disrupt the gene's function in whiteflies, offering a potential pesticide-free solution for crop protection.

How do plants defend themselves against insect pests?

What is the significance of the gene that whiteflies have stolen from plants?

What role do viruses play in the gene transfer between plants and whiteflies?

What was the outcome when researchers modified tomato plants to produce a small RNA molecule?

What potential benefits could arise from the findings of this research on whiteflies and plants?