Question

Certain viruses used as biological control agents belong to the genus :

• A. \( Nucleopolyhedrovirus \)
• B. \( Adenovirus \)
• C. \( Tobacco Mosaic Virus \)
• D. \( Rhinovirus \)

Hint:

Remember that Baculoviruses, especially Nucleopolyhedroviruses, are well-known for their application in biological pest control due to their host specificity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Nucleopolyhedroviruses (NPVs) are a genus of viruses in the family Baculoviridae. These viruses are known for their use as biological control agents, particularly against insect pests. They are highly specific to their insect hosts, making them environmentally safer alternatives to chemical pesticides. They infect insects and cause diseases that lead to the death of the pests. The other options are incorrect in this context: \begin{itemize} \item Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that typically infect the respiratory tract, eyes, intestines, and urinary tract in humans and other animals. They are not primarily known as biological control agents. \item Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) is a plant virus that infects tobacco and other plants. It is not used as a biological control agent against insects. \item Rhinoviruses are the most common viral infectious agents in humans and are the primary cause of the common cold. They are not used for biological control. \end{itemize}