Baculoviruses are pathogens that attack on-

The correct answer is Option (1) → Insect and other arthropods

Option (1) Insect and other arthropods — Correct. Of the options, only insects and other arthropods are hosts of baculoviruses. This is why they are used as biocontrol agents against insect pests.

Option (2) Bacteria — Incorrect. Viruses that attack bacteria are called bacteriophages. Baculoviruses attack insects and other arthropods.

Option (3) Yeast — Incorrect. Baculoviruses do not infect yeast or other fungi. Their hosts are insects and other arthropods, which makes them useful as biocontrol agents.

Option (4) Birds — Incorrect. Baculoviruses have no negative impact on birds, mammals, fish or plants. This species-specific action is why they are good for biological control of insects.

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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.”