Biological Classification (VSAQs)
Botany-1 | 2. Biological Classification – VSAQs:
Welcome to VSAQs in Chapter 2: Biological Classification. This page includes the most important FAQs from previous exams. Each question is answered in a concise format to help you understand quickly and aim for top marks in your final exams.
VSAQ-1: How are ‘viroids’ different from ‘viruses’?
Viroids and viruses are both types of infectious agents, but they differ significantly in their characteristics.
Viroids primarily affect plants and are much simpler than viruses. They lack a protein coat and consist solely of RNA. For instance, in fields around Warangal, viroids can affect crops like tomatoes or potatoes, leading to stunted growth and yield reduction.
In contrast, viruses can infect a wide range of organisms, including plants, animals, and even bacteria. They have a protein coat that protects their genetic material, which can be either RNA or DNA. For example, the common cold virus affects people across various regions, including Hyderabad.
VSAQ-2: What do the terms phycobiont and mycobiont signify?
In a lichen, the terms phycobiont and mycobiont describe the two different components. The phycobiont is the algal part of the lichen, responsible for photosynthesis. It’s like the algae in a lichen found on tree bark in rural Andhra Pradesh.
The mycobiont is the fungal component that provides structure and protection. For example, the fungi in lichens growing on rocks in Telangana help protect the algal partner from harsh weather conditions.
VSAQ-3: What do the terms ‘algal bloom’ and ‘red tides’ signify?
An algal bloom occurs when there’s a rapid increase in algae in water bodies, often due to nutrient overload. This can lead to problems like eutrophication. In local lakes near Hyderabad, such blooms can lead to poor water quality and affect aquatic life.
A red tide is a specific type of algal bloom where red dinoflagellates cause the water to appear red. This phenomenon can be observed along coastal areas, impacting marine life and local fisheries.
VSAQ-4: State two economically important uses of heterotrophic bacteria.
Heterotrophic bacteria are essential in several economic processes. For instance, in making curd from milk, bacteria like Lactobacillus are crucial. This process is common in homes and dairies across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
They are also vital in industrial production of substances like alcohol, antibiotics, and enzymes. These products are manufactured in factories in cities like Hyderabad, contributing significantly to various industries.
VSAQ-5: What is the principle underlying the use of cyanobacteria in agricultural fields for crop improvement?
Cyanobacteria are used in agriculture for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. They convert nitrogen into a form that plants can use, enhancing soil fertility. For instance, fields in areas like Nalgonda benefit from cyanobacterial fertilizers, improving crop yields.
VSAQ-6: Name two diseases caused by Mycoplasmas.
Mycoplasma pneumonia is a respiratory infection causing symptoms like cough and fever. It affects people in various regions, including cities like Vijayawada.
Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) is a serious disease in cattle caused by Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides. It impacts livestock across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, affecting local farmers and their cattle.