Question

Molya disease of wheat is caused by

• A. Virus
• B. Bacteria
• C. Fungi
• D. Nematode

Hint:

Molya disease $\rightarrow$ Cereal Cyst Nematode (Heterodera avenae). Corrected by crop rotation with non-host crops (mustard, gram).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Molya disease is a damaging cereal nematode pest infestation affecting wheat and barley crops in light sandy soils of semi-arid India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Molya disease is caused by the cereal cyst nematode, Heterodera avenae.
It is particularly severe in the light, sandy soils of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab.
Symptoms include severe stunting, pale yellowing of foliage, poor tillering, and excessive root branching with characteristic tiny white/brown cysts attached to the roots.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, Molya disease of wheat is caused by a Nematode, corresponding to option (D).