What characteristic is associated with Bt cotton?

Bt cotton is characterized by its pest resistance, which is achieved through genetic modification. This specific type of cotton has been engineered to express a protein derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which is toxic to certain insect pests, particularly caterpillars that feed on cotton plants. As a result, Bt cotton significantly reduces the need for chemical insecticides, protects yield quality, and promotes more sustainable farming practices.

The other characteristics mentioned do not accurately represent Bt cotton. For instance, while some plants may have higher water requirements or specific susceptibility to frost, these traits are not inherent to Bt cotton. Additionally, Bt cotton does not correlate with lower nutritional value, as its primary modification is focused on pest resistance rather than nutritional content. Therefore, the recognition of pest resistance through genetic modification is central to understanding the benefits and attributes of Bt cotton in agricultural biotechnology.