Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement I: Morin is present in Morus alba leaves
Statement II: Morin is absent in Moringa oleifera leaves
In 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:

Morin is a specific flavone found in mulberry leaves (Morus alba) that serves as a vital feeding stimulant (phagostimulant) for the silkworm, Bombyx mori.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Host plant selection by specialist phytophagous insects is often regulated by specific secondary metabolites.
These chemicals act as attractants, repellents, or phagostimulants (feeding stimulants).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements:
- Statement I: Morin ($3,5,7,2',4'$-pentahydroxyflavone) is a characteristic flavonoid found in plants of the Moraceae family, particularly in Morus alba (mulberry) leaves.
Morin is a key chemical that acts as a strong phagostimulant for Bombyx mori (mulberry silkworm) larvae, helping them recognize and feed on mulberry leaves. Thus, Statement I is true.
- Statement II: Moringa oleifera (drumstick tree) belongs to the Moringaceae family.
Its leaves are rich in other flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, but they do not contain morin. Thus, Statement II is true.
Therefore, both Statement I and Statement II are true.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (A).