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Question #46973
The Question
An ecologist models Paul Ehrlich's 'Rivet Popper Hypothesis' using a population of slime moulds facing unfavourable conditions. A targeted mutation is introduced that disrupts the cAMP chemotactic signaling pathway, effectively removing a 'keystone rivet' from their developmental cycle. Which of the following statements correctly identifies the systemic fallout (ecosystem collapse) of this intervention?
Options
- A.
The cells fail to aggregate into a pseudoplasmodium, preventing differentiation into fruiting bodies and causing reproductive extinction.
- B.
The plasmodium continues to grow vegetatively over several feet but loses its saprophytic mode of nutrition.
- C.
The individual cells bypass the aggregation phase and directly secrete true cellulosic walls to survive as independent spores.
- D.
The aggregation occurs normally, but the resulting fruiting bodies fail to undergo meiosis, producing sterile diploid spores.
Check Your Answer
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
RAAS Mechanism|Slime Mold Aggregation|Plasma Proteins and Osmotic Pressure
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize the Rivet Popper hypothesis strictly in terms of airplane rivets and macroscopic species richness.
This question forces the application of 'systemic collapse due to the loss of a critical functional component' to cellular developmental biology.
The primary trap (Option C) leverages the NCERT fact that 'spores possess true walls', tricking students into thinking individual cells can independently encyst as spores without the prerequisite multicellular aggregation and fruiting body differentiation.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biological Classification - Class 11 |
| Concept | Slime Mold Aggregation |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |