Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lathyrism is a classical toxicological syndrome caused by prolonged ingestion of plants belonging to the genus Lathyrus.
It primarily manifests in two forms: neurolathyrism (characterized by central nervous system damage and spastic paralysis) and osteolathyrism (characterized by connective tissue and skeletal deformities).
This condition is particularly common in drought-prone areas where hardy Lathyrus species are used as emergency fodder for livestock.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the toxic potential of each listed plant:
1. Lathyrus sativus (A):
Commonly known as the grass pea or khesari dhal, this extremely hardy legume thrives in poor soils and dry conditions.
Its seeds and forage contain a non-protein amino acid neurotoxin called $\beta$-N-oxalyl-L-$\alpha$,$\beta$-diaminopropionic acid ($\beta$-ODAP, also known as BOAA).
$\beta$-ODAP acts as a potent agonist at AMPA-type glutamate receptors, causing excitotoxic damage to upper motor neurons in the spinal cord.
This leads to progressive spastic paraparesis, muscle weakness, and a characteristic stiff, scissor-like gait, a condition known as neurolathyrism.
Therefore, A is correct.
2. Pteridium aquilinum (B):
Commonly known as bracken fern, this plant causes bone marrow depression (leading to enzootic hematuria in cattle) and thiamine deficiency (causing "staggers" in horses) due to its ptaquiloside and thiaminase content, not lathyrism.
3. Beta vulgaris (C):
This plant is associated with nitrate and oxalate toxicity, not neurolathyrism.
4. Oxalis pescaprae (D):
This plant contains high concentrations of soluble oxalates, which cause acute hypocalcemia and renal tubule damage due to calcium oxalate crystallization.
Since only Lathyrus sativus is associated with neurolathyrism, the correct option is "A only".
Step 3: Final Answer:
Neurolathyrism is caused exclusively by the consumption of Lathyrus sativus.
Therefore, the correct option is (C).