Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect
1. bacteria
2. fungi
3. plants
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A
1 and 2 only
B
3 only
C
1 and 3 only
D
1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation
1. Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they require a living host cell to replicate. They exhibit a wide host range across different biological kingdoms.
2. Statement 1 is correct. Viruses that infect bacteria are known as bacteriophages. They are abundant and play significant roles in microbial ecology.
3. Statement 2 is correct. Viruses that infect fungi are called mycoviruses. They can affect fungal growth and pathogenicity.
4. Statement 3 is correct. Numerous viruses are known to infect plants, causing various diseases. Examples include Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV).
5. Since viruses can infect bacteria, fungi, and plants, all three statements are correct.