Question

Important characteristics of phytopathogenic bacteria are- A. They are saprophytes
B. They do not infect animals
C. They are invariably rod-shaped and flagellate
D. All are Gram -ve

• A. A, B and D only
• B. A, B and C only
• C. A, B, C and D
• D. B, C and D only

Hint:

Phytopathogenic bacteria = Plant specific, rod-shaped, Gram-negative, motile with flagella.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Phytopathogenic Bacteria Definition.
Phytopathogenic bacteria are plant disease-causing agents, distinct from human/animal pathogens.
Step 2: Characteristic Evaluation.
- B: Does not infect animals → Accurate; plant-specific.
- C: Predominantly rod-shaped with flagella → Accurate.
- D: Majority are Gram-negative → Accurate.
- A: Are saprophytes → Inaccurate; these bacteria are parasitic, not saprophytic.
Step 3: Summary of Key Traits.
Therefore, the defining characteristics are exclusively B, C, and D.