Statement I: Baculoviruses exhibit broad-spectrum activity as insecticides.
Statement II: These viruses are highly suitable for integrated pest management in environmentally sensitive areas.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Only Statement II is correct.
Statement I: False. Baculoviruses are pathogens of insects and other arthropods, and they are used as biocontrol agents. But they are species-specific and narrow-spectrum: each attacks only its target pest. A broad-spectrum insecticide would kill many kinds of insects.
Statement II: True. Baculoviruses have no negative impact on plants, mammals, birds, fish or non-target insects. So they suit an integrated pest management (IPM) programme, where useful insects are protected, and the treatment of an ecologically sensitive area.
NCERT Extract:
Microbes as Biocontrol Agents – “… Baculoviruses are pathogens that attack insects and other arthropods. The majority of baculoviruses used as biological control agents are in the genus Nucleopolyhedrovirus. These viruses are excellent candidates for species-specific, narrow spectrum insecticidal applications. They have been shown to have no negative impacts on plants, mammals, birds, fish or even on non-target insects. This is especially desirable when beneficial insects are being conserved to aid in an overall integrated pest management (IPM) programme, or when an ecologically sensitive area is being treated.”