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Question #47486
The Question
Deuteromycetes play a pivotal role in mineral cycling by decomposing forest litter. If a terrestrial ecosystem experiences prolonged waterlogging resulting in severe soil anaerobiosis, which of the following accurately describes the cascading ecological consequence?
Options
- A.
Inhibition of fungal oxidative catabolism arrests mineralization, leading to detritus accumulation and a subsequent decline in Net Primary Productivity (NPP).
- B.
Deuteromycetes shift to anaerobic respiration, accelerating humification and causing a rapid release of inorganic nutrients that increases Gross Primary Productivity (GPP).
- C.
Fragmentation ceases completely, but enhanced leaching of water-soluble inorganic nutrients compensates for the lack of mineralization, maintaining NPP.
- D.
The environmental stress induces a sexual reproductive phase in Deuteromycetes to form resistant spores, temporarily halting humification but spiking secondary productivity.
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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
Conidia|Mycelium|Aspergillus|Penicillium
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: This question requires the synthesis of two distinct NCERT concepts across different grades: the specific ecological role of Deuteromycetes (Class 11 Biological Classification) and the oxygen dependency of the decomposition process (Class 12 Ecosystem).
The common misconception is treating decomposition as a generic process rather than an aerobic, enzyme-driven catabolism that directly dictates the nutrient availability (NPP) of the entire ecosystem.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biological Classification - Class 11 |
| Concept | Deuteromycetes 'Fungi Imperfecti' |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |