Question

Select from the following the conditions responsible for the rapid spread of black mould on a slice of bread: (i) Formation of large number of spores (ii) Presence of moisture and nutrients in bread (iii) Low temperature (iv) Presence of hyphae

• A. (i) and (ii)
• B. (ii) and (iii)
• C. (i) and (iii)
• D. (iii) and (iv)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand what black mould is
Black mould, commonly seen on stale bread, is a type of fungus (e.g., Rhizopus) that reproduces through spores and grows rapidly under suitable conditions.

Step 2: Evaluate the given conditions
(i) Formation of large number of spores – ✔️ True. Spores are produced in large quantities and easily spread through air, helping mould grow rapidly on suitable surfaces like bread.
(ii) Presence of moisture and nutrients in bread – ✔️ True. Bread provides nutrients, and moisture is essential for fungal growth, making it an ideal medium.
(iii) Low temperature – ❌ False. Low temperatures slow down the growth of mould. Mould thrives in warm and moist environments.
(iv) Presence of hyphae – ❌ False. Hyphae help in the absorption of nutrients, but their presence alone doesn't explain the rapid spread.

Step 3: Conclusion
The conditions responsible for the rapid spread of black mould are:
(i) Formation of large number of spores and (ii) Presence of moisture and nutrients in bread.

Final Answer:
(i) and (ii)