Which of the following is included among the four major plant pathogen groups?

Which of the following is included among the four major plant pathogen groups?

• A. Nematodes
• B. Algae
• C. Lichens
• D. Molds

Answer: (A)

Plant diseases are categorized into four major pathogen groups: fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. Nematodes fit this set as they are microscopic roundworms that attack plant roots, causing damage that leads to poor nutrient and water uptake and stunted growth. That’s why this option is included among the four major plant pathogen groups. Algae aren’t listed as a major plant-pathogen group in this framework; lichens aren’t pathogens at all but a mutualistic combo of fungi and algae; molds are a form of fungi, not a separate major group.

Plant diseases are categorized into four major pathogen groups: fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. Nematodes fit this set as they are microscopic roundworms that attack plant roots, causing damage that leads to poor nutrient and water uptake and stunted growth. That’s why this option is included among the four major plant pathogen groups.

Algae aren’t listed as a major plant-pathogen group in this framework; lichens aren’t pathogens at all but a mutualistic combo of fungi and algae; molds are a form of fungi, not a separate major group.