Question:

Given below are two statements:
Statement I: The witches broom of legumes is caused by viruses
Statement II: The witches broom of legumes is caused by bacteria
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

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Witches' broom diseases in legumes are caused by Phytoplasmas, which are specialized, wall-less bacteria transmitted by insect vectors like leafhoppers.
  • Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
  • Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
  • Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
  • Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Witches' broom is a plant disease symptom characterized by an abnormal, dense, broom-like clustering of branches, small leaves, and phyllody (floral parts turning into leaf-like structures).
Understanding the specific biological agent responsible for this disease in legumes is essential for proper diagnosis and control.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let us evaluate the statements:
- Statement I: This statement asserts that witches' broom of legumes is caused by viruses.
Historically, many diseases with these symptoms were suspected to be viral because the infectious agents could pass through bacteria-retaining filters.
However, subsequent research disproved this theory. Therefore, Statement I is incorrect.
- Statement II: This statement asserts that witches' broom of legumes is caused by bacteria.
It is well-established that witches' broom of legumes is caused by Phytoplasmas.
Phytoplasmas are specialized, wall-less prokaryotes that belong to the class Mollicutes, which are phylogenetically related to Gram-positive bacteria.
Since phytoplasmas are unicellular, prokaryotic organisms (wall-less bacteria), the disease is classified as bacterial (specifically phytoplasmal). Therefore, Statement II is correct.
Thus, Statement I is incorrect and Statement II is correct.

Step 3: Final Answer

The correct option is (D).
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