Biopesticides Organisms UPSC Prelims PYQ 2012
Consider the following kinds of organisms:
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Flowering plants
Some species of which of the above kinds of organisms are employed as biopesticides?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
All are correct
- Biopesticides are natural or biologically-derived agents used to control pests. They include a variety of organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and even flowering plants. Let’s analyze each of the given organisms:
- Bacteria: Certain species of bacteria, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, are commonly used as biopesticides. These bacteria produce toxins that are harmful to insect pests but safe for humans, animals, and other non-target species.
- Fungi: Fungi are also used as biopesticides. For example, Beauveria bassiana is a fungus that targets a variety of insect pests. It is used as a biological control agent for pest management.
- Flowering plants: Some flowering plants, like neem (Azadirachta indica), have pesticidal properties. Neem extracts contain compounds like azadirachtin, which act as natural insect repellents and growth inhibitors for pests.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3; Difficulty Level: Easy
