UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 11 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Biopesticides Organisms

Consider the following kinds of organisms:

1. Bacteria

2. Fungi

3. Flowering plants

Some species of which of the above kinds of organisms are employed as biopesticides?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3
Show answer

Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3

Verdict

Correct Answer: 1, 2 and 3

All three are correct because bacteria, fungi and flowering plants can be used as sources of biopesticides.

Analysis

Biopesticides are pesticides derived from natural materials such as plants, bacteria, fungi, animals and certain minerals. They are generally used for eco-friendly pest control.

Statement by statement

1. Bacteria — Correct

Bacteria can be used as biopesticides.

A common example is Bacillus thuringiensis, which produces toxins effective against specific insect larvae such as caterpillars and beetles.

2. Fungi — Correct

Fungi are also used as biopesticides.

For example, Trichoderma species help suppress harmful plant-pathogenic fungi and are used in biological control of plant diseases.

3. Flowering plants — Correct

Some flowering plants produce natural pesticidal compounds.

Neem produces azadirachtin, which affects the growth, feeding and reproduction of insects. Pyrethrum from Chrysanthemum is another natural insecticide.

Extra UPSC info

* Biopesticides are usually less toxic than conventional chemical pesticides.

* They are generally target-specific and affect only particular pests or closely related organisms.

* They often decompose quickly and reduce the risk of environmental pollution.

* Major types include microbial pesticides, biochemical pesticides and plant-incorporated protectants.

* Bt cotton is an example of a plant-incorporated protectant.

* Biopesticides are useful in Integrated Pest Management.

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