Question

Select from the following the conditions responsible for the rapid spread of black mould on a slice of bread: (i) Formation of large number of spores (ii) Presence of moisture and nutrients in bread (iii) Low temperature (iv) Presence of hyphae

• A. (i) and (ii)
• B. (ii) and (iii)
• C. (i) and (iii)
• D. (iii) and (iv)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Define Black Mould
Black mould, exemplified by Rhizopus found on stale bread, is a fungus that propagates via spores and exhibits rapid proliferation under favorable conditions.

Step 2: Assess Environmental Factors
(i) Abundant Spore Production – ✔️ Correct. Mould generates numerous spores that disperse readily via air, facilitating swift growth on suitable substrates like bread.
(ii) Moisture and Nutritional Content of Bread – ✔️ Correct. Bread offers essential nutrients, and moisture is critical for fungal development, establishing it as an optimal growth medium.
(iii) Low Temperature – ❌ Incorrect. Low temperatures inhibit mould growth. Mould flourishes in warm, humid environments.
(iv) Presence of Hyphae – ❌ Incorrect. While hyphae aid nutrient absorption, their mere presence does not account for the rapid dissemination.

Step 3: Determine Contributing Factors
The factors facilitating the rapid propagation of black mould are:
(i) Prolific spore formation and (ii) The presence of moisture and nutrients within bread.

Final Determination:
(i) and (ii)