Which of the Following is a Common Benefit of a Microbe-Plant

Question

Which of the following is a common benefit of a microbe-plant symbiosis?
A) increased nutrient availability only
B) decreased pathogen colonization only
C) increased affinity for carbon dioxide
D) increased nutrient availability and decreased pathogen colonization

Accepted Answer

A common benefit of a microbe-plant symbiosis is increased nutrient availability and decreased pathogen colonization. The microbes in the symbiosis can help break down and release nutrients from the soil for the plant's use, while also protecting the plant from harmful pathogens that could reduce its growth and yield. Option A is incorrect because decreased pathogen colonization is also a common benefit, not just increased nutrient availability. Option B is incorrect because increased affinity for carbon dioxide is not a common benefit of microbe-plant symbiosis.