Biological Classification Question 116

116. Which of the following statements is wrong for viroids?

(a) They lack a protein coat

(b) They are smaller than viruses

(c) They cause infections

(d) Their RNA is of high molecular weight

Show Answer

Answer : d

Hints & Solutions

(d) Viroids, the smallest known pathogens, are naked, circular, single-stranded RNA molecules that do not encode protein but autonomously replicate when introduced into host plants. Viroids only infect plants; some cause economically important diseases of crop plants, while others appear to be benign.