The primary goal of a refuge in the resistance management strategy for Bt crops is to __________.

The primary goal of a refuge in the resistance management strategy for Bt crops is to produce Bt-susceptible individuals. A refuge is a designated area where non-Bt crops are grown alongside Bt crops. This strategic approach aims to maintain a population of pests that are not exposed to the Bt toxin, allowing them to survive and reproduce. When these susceptible individuals mate with any potential Bt-resistant pests in the adjacent Bt crops, the offspring are expected to inherit susceptibility to the Bt toxin.

Maintaining a population of susceptible pests is critical because it slows down the development of resistance in pest populations. If all pests were exposed exclusively to Bt crops, there would be a higher likelihood of selection for resistant individuals, leading to the eventual failure of Bt technology. Thus, the refuge serves as a crucial tool in sustaining the effectiveness of Bt crops over time, optimizing pest control efforts.

Producing resistant individuals would undermine this strategy, while enhancing crop yield and reducing pesticide use, although beneficial outcomes, are not the primary focus of the refuge principle in resistance management for Bt crops.