UPSC Prelims 2013
Science & Technology
Mycorrhizal Biotechnology has been used in rehabilitating degraded sites because mycorrhiza enables the plants to -
1. Resist drought and increase absorptive area
2. Tolerate extremes of pH
3. Resist disease infestation
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Mycorrhizae: - Greatly increase the effective root surface area - Improve water absorption - Help plants withstand drought stress Statement 2 is correct: Mycorrhizal fungi help plants: - Grow in acidic or alkaline soils - Access nutrients even when pH reduces their availability Statement 3 is correct: Mycorrhizae offer bioprotection: - Compete with soil pathogens - Produce antibiotics - Strengthen plant immune responses