Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Microbes in Human Welfare

Question:

Which among the following microbe is present in symbiotic association with the roots of leguminous plants ?

Options:

Azospirillum

Bacillus thuringiensis

Azotobacter

Rhizobium

Correct Answer:

Rhizobium

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (4) – Rhizobium

Biofertilisers are organisms that enrich the nutrient quality of the soil. The main sources of biofertilisers are bacteria, fungi and cyanobacteria. The nodules on the roots of leguminous plants formed by the symbiotic association of Rhizobium. These bacteria fix atmospheric nitrogen into organic forms, which is used by the plant as nutrient.

Other bacteria can fix atmospheric nitrogen while free-living in the soil (examples Azospirillum and Azotobacter), thus enriching the nitrogen content of the soil.
Bacillus thuringiensis is used as a  microbial biocontrol agents in order to control butterfly caterpillars. These are available in sachets as dried spores which are mixed with water and sprayed onto vulnerable plants such as brassicas and fruit trees, where these are eaten by the insect larvae. In the gut of the larvae, the toxin is released and the larvae get killed. The bacterial disease will kill the caterpillars, but leave other insects unharmed.