Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question requires matching specific micronutrient deficiency diseases (List-I) with their corresponding susceptible plant species (List-II).
Step 2: Key Concepts and Approach:
Micronutrients such as Boron, Zinc, and Molybdenum play critical roles in biochemical pathways.
Deficiencies of these elements cause characteristic anatomical and physiological symptoms in specific indicator plants.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
• I $\rightarrow$ C (Mottled leaf in Citrus): Zinc (Zn) deficiency causes a reduction in leaf size, chlorosis, and a mottled appearance in Citrus plants due to impaired auxin synthesis.
• II $\rightarrow$ E (Heart rot in Beet root): Boron (B) deficiency leads to the death of active growing meristems, causing tissue necrosis and decay in the center of the root, known as heart rot of sugar beet or beet root.
• III $\rightarrow$ D (Whip tail in Cauliflower): Molybdenum (Mo) is a crucial cofactor for nitrate reductase.
Its deficiency in cauliflower leads to restricted lamina development, leaving only the thin, whip-like midrib. This is called whiptail disease.
• IV $\rightarrow$ B (Bronzing in Legume): Zinc or manganese deficiencies can lead to brown discolored spots and bronzing of leaves in leguminous crops.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Matching these pairs gives: I-C, II-E, III-D, and IV-B.