Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect 1. bacteria 2. fungi 3. plants Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• Viruses are obligate parasites that infect every form of cellular life.
• Bacteriophages infect bacteria (1) and are used in phage therapy; mycoviruses infect fungi (2); plant viruses such as tobacco mosaic virus and tomato leaf curl infect plants (3), spread by insects like whiteflies.
• Hence 1, 2 and 3, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- Plants are also infected by viruses.
- (b) 3 only
- Bacteria and fungi are also infected by viruses.
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- Fungi are also infected by mycoviruses.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2016, held on 7 August 2016. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.