What defines a resistant variety of plants?

A resistant variety of plants is defined as those that are less vulnerable to pests or diseases. This characteristic is crucial for effective pest management and can significantly reduce the need for chemical interventions, benefiting both the environment and the economy. Resistant plants typically have evolved certain traits or mechanisms that enable them to withstand or repel specific threats. This could be due to physical features, such as tougher leaves or thicker cuticles, or through biochemical processes that deter insect feeding or inhibit pathogen development.

In contrast, while genetically modified organisms can be engineered to exhibit resistance, not all resistant plants are genetically modified. Similarly, water requirement and growth rate pertain to other aspects of plant performance and are not indicators of pest or disease resistance. A plant may thrive in terms of growth or water usage but still remain susceptible to various pests and diseases. Thus, the essence of resistance is tied specifically to the plant's ability to withstand biotic stressors rather than these alternative attributes.