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🔬 Biology  ·  Microbes in Human Welfare  ·  NEET

Which microorganism acts as a biocontrol agent against plant pathogens by competing for nutrients and space?

Answer: Trichoderma.

  • A Bacillus thuringiensis
  • B Trichoderma
  • C Pseudomonas
  • D Azotobacter

Correct answer: B. Trichoderma

Explanation: Trichoderma species are free-living fungi that act as biocontrol agents against plant pathogens by competing for nutrients and space and producing antifungal metabolites.

Sewage Treatment FlowPrimaryphysical filtering+ sedimentationSecondary (aerobic)aeration tank, flocsconsume organic matterActivated sludgesettles out;part reused as inoculumSludge digesterANAEROBIC →biogas (CH₄)Note the switch: aerobic microbes in the tank, anaerobic microbes in the digester

Sewage passes through physical removal (primary), then aerobic biological treatment where microbes form flocs that consume organic matter (secondary); the settled activated sludge is then digested anaerobically to produce biogas - a deliberate switch from aerobic to anaerobic conditions between stages.

Concept context

Microorganisms in food, medicine, sewage treatment, biocontrol, and biofertilizers

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