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Question #46498
The Question
In a human host co-infected with two different strains of Plasmodium, Strain X rapidly ruptures erythrocytes, releasing large amounts of the toxic polymer haemozoin. The resulting severe oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory host response create a micro-environment that inhibits the survival of the slower-replicating Strain Y, eventually eliminating it despite the abundant availability of uninfected erythrocytes. Ecologically, the action of haemozoin in this scenario is best described as a mechanism of:
Options
- A.
Exploitative competition leading to resource partitioning.
- B.
Interference competition driving competitive exclusion.
- C.
Amensalism resulting in the realization of a fundamental niche.
- D.
Character displacement due to high niche overlap.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Plasmodium species|Vector Competence|Anopheles density
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often restrict ecological concepts like 'Competitive Exclusion' and 'Interference Competition' to macro-ecology (e.g., Abingdon tortoise or barnacles).
Applying these to parasitic micro-ecosystems tests true conceptual synthesis.
Common Misconception: Assuming competitive exclusion only occurs when a resource is completely depleted (Exploitative competition), ignoring NCERT's specific definition of Interference Competition where toxins or environmental modifications drive exclusion despite abundant resources.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Human Health and Disease - Class 12 |
| Concept | Haemozoin Release |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |