Question

Given below are two statements.
Statement I: Baculoviruses are pathogens that attack nematodes.
Statement II: Baculoviruses are used as biological control agents in ecologically sensitive areas as they are species-specific in their action.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below.

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are true
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are false
• C. Statement I is true, but Statement II is false
• D. Statement I is false, but Statement II is true

Hint:

Always remember: Baculoviruses target arthropods/insects only. They are the ideal candidates for species-specific, narrow-spectrum insecticidal applications in IPM.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept: Baculoviruses are biological control agents used extensively in integrated pest management programs.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach: Analyze each statement against standard textbook facts regarding the specific target organisms and ecological applications of Baculoviruses.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation: Statement I states that Baculoviruses are pathogens that attack nematodes.
This is factually incorrect because Baculoviruses (specifically the genus Nucleopolyhedrovirus) are pathogens that exclusively attack insects and other arthropods, not nematodes.
Statement II states that they are used as biological control agents in ecologically sensitive areas because of their species-specific action.
This statement is completely true, as they have a very narrow-spectrum insecticidal application.
They have been shown to have no negative impacts on plants, mammals, birds, fish, or even on non-target insects.
Therefore, Statement I is false, while Statement II is true.
Step 4: Final Answer: The correct option is (4).