Question

UPSC Prelims 2016 Question:

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.

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

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4: 1, 2 and 3

Detailed Solution

Explanation: 

  • Microbes are diverse–protozoa, bacteria, fungi and microscopic animal and plant viruses. Among these, A virus is an infectious microbe consisting of a segment of nucleic acid (either DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat.

  • A virus cannot replicate alone; instead, it must infect cells and use components of the host cell to make copies of itself. That's why Viruses infect humans. But, in fact, viruses infect many organisms like fungi and bacteria. So, point 1 and point 2 are correct.

  • Viruses also cause diseases in animals and plants. So, point 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (4) is the correct answer.

Subject: Science & Technology | Biology

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