Question

Given below are two statements:
• [Statement (I):] Bacteria need pre-existing openings or wounds on plants to initiate infection. 
• [Statement (II):] Bacteria do not produce specialized infective structures. 
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below. 
 

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

To distinguish between bacterial and fungal penetration:
- Fungi: Can penetrate actively (using appressoria and cutinase enzymes) or passively.
- Bacteria: Can only enter passively through wounds or natural openings (stomata, hydathodes).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A