Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement I: Witches broom symptoms are caused by phytoplasmas.
Statement II: Nutrient deficiency also causes witches broom in crop plants.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate 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 correct but Statement II is false
• D. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is true

Hint:

Witches broom causes:
- Phytoplasmas (infectious).
- Nutrient deficiencies (non-infectious).
- Zinc deficiency causes rosetting.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of the causes of witches broom symptoms.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Statement I:
Witches broom symptoms (proliferation of shoots) are caused by phytoplasmas.
Phytoplasmas are cell-wall-less bacteria that cause abnormal shoot growth.
Examples: Coconut lethal yellowing, aster yellows.
This statement is true.
Statement II:
Nutrient deficiency can also cause witches broom.
Zinc deficiency causes "little leaf" or rosetting (which resembles witches broom).
Manganese deficiency can also cause similar symptoms.
This statement is true.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, both statements are true, which corresponds to option (A).
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