Question

A common biocontrol agent for the control of plant diseases is

• A. Bacillus thuringiensis
• B. Glomus
• C. Trichoderma
• D. Baculovirus

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine the correct answer, we must understand the role of biocontrol agents in managing plant diseases.

Biocontrol agents are organisms, typically microorganisms like fungi or bacteria, that are used to control plant pathogens, pests, or diseases through biological means, rather than chemical control.

Let's analyze each option:

1. Bacillus thuringiensis: This is a bacterium widely used as a biocontrol agent for controlling insect pests, particularly in agricultural settings. It produces proteins that are toxic to insects but is not primarily used for controlling plant diseases.
2. Glomus: Glomus species are types of mycorrhizal fungi which form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, helping in nutrient absorption, but they are not directly used for controlling plant pathogens or diseases.
3. Trichoderma: This is a genus of fungi commonly used as a biocontrol agent to manage various plant diseases. Trichoderma species are effective against several plant pathogens, making them a popular choice for biological disease control.
4. Baculovirus: This is a virus used primarily for controlling insect populations and is not utilized for direct plant disease control.

By evaluating the options, it is clear that Trichoderma is the correct answer as it is widely recognized for its effectiveness in controlling plant diseases through various mechanisms such as mycoparasitism, antibiosis, and promoting plant defenses.

Thus, the correct answer is:

Trichoderma