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Question #46956
The Question
In a marine ecosystem experiencing severe ocean acidification, researchers note a catastrophic decline in the standing crop of higher trophic levels. This is traced back to the population collapse of organisms explicitly recognized as the 'chief producers in the oceans'. Which of the following best explains the physiological basis of this primary producer collapse?
Options
- A.
Reduced pH inhibits the polymerization of dissolved silicic acid, preventing the formation of their indestructible overlapping cell walls.
- B.
Acidification accelerates the dissolution of their calcium carbonate shells, leading to the loss of structural integrity and osmotic lysis.
- C.
The acidic environment denatures the stiff cellulosic plates on their outer surface, disrupting their flagellar movement.
- D.
Lowered pH disrupts the formation of their proteinaceous pellicle, making them highly susceptible to benthic predators.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Mycoplasma|Obligate_Parasitism|Metabolic_Dependency
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students commonly associate ocean acidification exclusively with the dissolution of calcium carbonate (Option B).
However, the question uses the exact NCERT phrase 'chief producers in the oceans', which specifically identifies Diatoms.
To answer correctly, the student must bypass the calcium carbonate trap and link Diatoms to their specific biochemical requirement: silica (silicic acid) for their frustules.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biological Classification - Class 11 |
| Concept | Mycoplasma Sensitivity |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |