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Question #46991
The Question
A genetically engineered Nucleopolyhedrovirus is used as a vector to introduce a gene encoding a rapid-acting cytoplasmic toxin into the vegetative hyphae of Albugo and Penicillium. It is observed that a localized infection causes rapid, whole-body systemic failure in Albugo, while Penicillium survives by isolating the infected hyphal tips. Which of the following structural adaptations best explains this differential response?
Options
- A.
Albugo possesses an aseptate, coenocytic mycelium that prevents compartmentalization of the toxin, whereas Penicillium utilizes septa to wall off the damaged sections.
- B.
Albugo lacks a rigid chitinous cell wall, allowing rapid diffusion of the toxin, whereas Penicillium possesses a thick chitin-glucan complex that restricts movement.
- C.
The toxin specifically targets the diploid nuclei present in the continuous cytoplasm of Albugo, while the haploid nuclei of Penicillium remain unaffected.
- D.
Albugo relies on endogenous sporangiospores which actively transport the toxin systemically, whereas Penicillium produces exogenous conidia that restrict toxin movement.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Phycomycetes_Aseptate_Hyphae|Primary_Succession_Facilitation|Detritus_Food_Chain
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often rote-memorize 'aseptate and coenocytic' for Phycomycetes without understanding its physiological implication.
This question tests the application of this morphological fact to a dynamic scenario, highlighting that the lack of internal compartmentalization (septa) makes the entire organism vulnerable to rapid systemic spread of localized damage or infection.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biological Classification - Class 11 |
| Concept | Phycomycetes Aseptate Hyphae |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |