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Question #45178
The Question
A transgenic tobacco plant is developed using Agrobacterium vectors to introduce nematode-specific genes, producing both sense and antisense RNA. This initiates RNA interference (RNAi), successfully eradicating the local population of the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. According to ecological principles, which of the following is the most likely unintended consequence of this highly specific biotechnological intervention?
Options
- A.
Biomagnification of the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) complexes in the secondary consumers of the detritus food chain.
- B.
Co-extinction of an obligate hyperparasite or predator species that exclusively relies on Meloidogyne incognita for its survival.
- C.
Loss of host specificity in the Agrobacterium vector, causing it to initiate RNAi silencing in non-target symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi.
- D.
Competitive exclusion of the transgenic tobacco by wild-type variants due to the metabolic burden of replicating mobile genetic elements (transposons).
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
RNAi Vector Source|Cry Gene Specificity|Nematode Infestation
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often study Biotechnology (Unit IX) and Ecology (Unit X) in strict isolation.
This question forces the synthesis of a molecular defense mechanism's success (RNAi) with its downstream ecological consequence (Co-extinction).
A common misconception is that highly specific, non-chemical biotechnological pest control has zero ecological drawbacks, failing to recognize that the targeted eradication of any species inherently disrupts obligate trophic interactions.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biotechnology and Its Applications - Class 12 |
| Concept | RNAi Vector Source |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |