Solution:
The correct answer is option C.
Smut.
Potato blight is a plant disease that affects potato plants. It is caused by a specific type of fungus called
Phytophthora infestans. This fungus is responsible for the devastating disease known as potato blight or late blight.
Potato blight is a highly destructive disease that primarily affects the leaves, stems, and tubers of potato plants. It can cause significant damage to potato crops, leading to reduced yields and economic losses for farmers.
The disease spreads rapidly under favorable environmental conditions, such as high humidity and moderate temperatures. The fungus produces spores that can be carried by wind, water, or infected plant material, allowing it to spread from plant to plant and even between fields.
Symptoms of potato blight include dark, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which can quickly turn into brown or black patches. Infected stems may also develop lesions, leading to withering and dieback of the foliage. Tubers can be affected as well, showing signs of rotting and decay.
To manage potato blight, farmers often employ a combination of preventive and control measures. These can include planting resistant potato varieties, practicing crop rotation, applying fungicides, and timely removal and destruction of infected plant material.
It is not caused by Penicillium (option A), which is a genus of fungi known for producing antibiotics, nor is it caused by Meningitis (option B), which is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Additionally, it is not caused by Ringworm (option D), which is a fungal infection of the skin, hair, or nails.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option C.
Smut, as potato blight is caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans, not by Penicillium, Meningitis, or Ringworm.
