Question

Match List I with List II
List I (Phytochemical):
A. BOAA
B. Erusic acid
C. Gossypol
D. Linolenic acid
List II (Plant species):
I. Brassica species
II. Flax or Linseed
III. Lathyrus
IV. Cotton
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A - II, B - I, C - IV, D - III
• B. A - I, B - III, C - IV, D - II
• C. A - III, B - I, C - II, D - IV
• D. A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

Hint:

BOAA (or ODAP) is the classic toxin associated with Lathyrus (causes lathyrism), and gossypol is the main toxic pigment of cotton. These are high-yield facts for agricultural exams.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Phytochemicals are chemical compounds produced by plants. Some serve as nutritional indicators, industrial fatty acids, or anti-nutritional factors (toxins).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us match the phytochemicals to their source plant species:
A. BOAA ($\beta$-N-oxalyl-L-$\alpha$,$\beta$-diaminopropionic acid): BOAA, also known as ODAP, is a non-protein neurotoxic amino acid.
It is found in Lathyrus sativus (grass pea). High consumption of grass pea causes neurolathyrism, which results in paralysis of the lower limbs.
Therefore, A matches with III (Lathyrus).
B. Erucic acid: Erucic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid.
It is present in high concentrations in the seed oil of Brassica species (rapeseed and mustard). High levels of erucic acid are undesirable for human consumption due to potential cardiotoxic effects.
Therefore, B matches with I (Brassica species).
C. Gossypol: Gossypol is a toxic, polyphenolic pigment present in the seeds and gland tissue of the cotton plant.
It acts as a natural defense against pests but is toxic to non-ruminant animals, limiting the direct use of cottonseed meal as animal feed.
Therefore, C matches with IV (Cotton).
D. Linolenic acid: Linolenic acid (specifically $\alpha$-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid) is highly abundant in flaxseed or linseed (Linum usitatissimum).
The high linolenic acid content gives linseed oil excellent drying properties, making it valuable for paints, varnishes, and linoleum.
Therefore, D matches with II (Flax or Linseed).

Step 3: Final Answer:
The matches are: A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II. This corresponds to Option (D).