The widespread use of Bt-corn for caterpillar control ___________ the chances for the development of resistance.

The correct answer indicates that the widespread use of Bt-corn for caterpillar control increases the chances for the development of resistance. This outcome is grounded in principles of pest management and evolutionary biology.

When a single pest management strategy, such as the use of Bt-corn, is employed extensively, it exerts continuous selection pressure on target pest populations. Over time, individual pests that possess a genetic mutation that provides resistance to the Bt toxin are more likely to survive and reproduce. As these resistant individuals proliferate, the overall effectiveness of Bt-corn diminishes, leading to a higher proportion of the pest population that can survive despite the presence of the toxin.

This phenomenon is a significant concern in integrated pest management strategies. By relying heavily on one method for pest control, the likelihood of resistance developing increases because pests are continually exposed to the same mode of action without alternative controls being utilized to mitigate this risk. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the understanding that reliance on a single pest control method can jeopardize the long-term control of pest populations.