[Campbell Biology P.885] The "Concept Check 38.2" section raises a question about why fungal... | Practice Question

The "Concept Check 38.2" section raises a question about why fungal epidemics pose a greater risk to asexually propagated crops, such as the seedless banana. Based on the principles discussed in the text, what is the primary underlying reason for this increased risk?

  • A: Asexually propagated crops are inherently weaker and more susceptible to all types of pathogens.
  • B: The uniform genetic makeup of asexually propagated crops means that if one individual is susceptible to a pathogen, all individuals in the population are likely to be susceptible.
  • C: Fungal epidemics specifically target plants that do not produce seeds, like the seedless banana.
  • D: Asexual propagation methods lead to an accumulation of harmful mutations over generations, making crops more vulnerable.

Explanation

Asexual propagation creates clones, meaning all individuals are genetically identical. If a pathogen can infect one plant, it can likely infect all plants in the population, leading to widespread damage or loss, as highlighted by the concern for seedless bananas.