Which statement reflects a consideration when using endophyte-infected grasses?

• A. They guarantee pest-free turf
• B. They may affect non-target organisms and turf performance
• C. They require extensive maintenance
• D. They have no drawbacks

Answer: (B)

Endophyte-infected grasses bring a trade-off: they can deter certain pests, but their alkaloids can also influence other organisms and how the turf grows and performs. The protective chemicals produced by the endophyte help reduce insect pressure, yet they aren’t selective only for bad pests. Non-target insects, soil microbes, and other parts of the ecosystem can be affected, and the overall turf performance—such as growth vigor, persistence, and response to stress—can vary based on the endophyte strain and environment. Because of these potential ecological and performance effects, you don’t get a guaranteed pest-free turf, nor is maintenance inherently excessive or absent drawbacks. The key consideration is weighing these ecological and performance impacts when choosing to use endophyte-infected grasses.