What is the role of streptomycin in agriculture?

• A. A biopesticide for insects
• B. An antibiotic to control bacterial pathogens in seeds
• C. A fertilizer for crop growth
• D. A growth regulator for plants

Answer: (B)

Streptomycin is commonly used in agriculture as an antibiotic to control bacterial pathogens that affect plants. This substance is particularly effective against various bacterial diseases that can threaten crop yield and quality. By inhibiting the growth and reproduction of harmful bacteria, streptomycin helps to protect seedlings and mature plants from infections, which can lead to significant losses in agricultural production.

This role is crucial because bacterial diseases can be difficult to manage and can spread rapidly through soil, water, or seed. Streptomycin's effectiveness in treating these infections allows farmers to reduce reliance on more harmful chemical treatments, promoting healthier crop management practices.

While options related to biopesticides for insects, fertilizers, and growth regulators serve different functions in agriculture, they do not relate to the specific action of streptomycin, which is focused on combating bacterial pathogens rather than influencing plant growth or enhancing nutrient availability.