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Question #46489
The Question
A mutant strain of Plasmodium falciparum undergoes a genetic shift, allowing its gametocytes to successfully fertilize and develop into sporozoites within the gut and salivary glands of multiple mosquito genera (Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes). Regarding this evolutionary transition from a specialist to a generalist vector strategy, which of the following statements is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The parasite's fundamental niche regarding its invertebrate host has expanded, reducing its strict co-evolutionary dependence on Anopheles.
- B.
The human host transitions from being the secondary host to the primary host because the parasite no longer exhibits strict vector specificity.
- C.
The biotic interaction between the mutant Plasmodium and the new mosquito vectors remains a (+ / -) relationship, as the parasite utilizes vector resources for sporogony.
- D.
This shift likely involves mutations in the parasite's surface receptors, allowing recognition of alternative ligands in the gut and salivary glands of non-primary Culicidae.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Plasmodium|Evolutionary Ecology of Parasitism|Biotic Interactions
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: The definition of Primary vs.
Secondary hosts in parasitology.
Students often harbor the misconception that 'Primary' means 'most specific' or 'most clinically relevant' (hence humans).
However, biologically, the definitive/primary host is strictly the one where the parasite reaches maturity and reproduces sexually.
A shift from a specialist to a generalist vector does not change the human's status as the secondary host, provided asexual reproduction still occurs in humans.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Human Health and Disease - Class 12 |
| Concept | Life Cycle of Plasmodium |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |