Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nutrient deficiencies in fruit crops produce distinct morphological symptoms.
Correctly diagnosing these symptoms is essential for implementing balanced nutritional management programs in orchards.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In guava (*Psidium guajava*), the development of red or bronze spots on newly emerged leaves, along with dry, brittle leaves and reduced leaf size (little leaf), are classic symptoms of Zinc (Zn) deficiency.
This condition is commonly known as Guava Bronzing.
Zinc plays a critical role as an activator of various enzymes and is essential for the biosynthesis of auxin (indole-acetic acid), which drives cell division and elongation.
Under zinc-deficient conditions:
- Chlorophyll synthesis is disrupted, and anthocyanin pigments accumulate, producing red or purple spots on the leaves.
- Leaf growth is stunted, and tissues become brittle and dry, leading to twig dieback and reduced fruit size.
Applying zinc sulfate ($\text{ZnSO}_4$) as a foliar spray is the standard practice used to correct this deficiency in orchards.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The deficiency of Zinc causes red spots and brittle leaves in guava, corresponding to option (B).