AIIMS 2000 Botany Cyanobacteria in Soil Management MCQ Question

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, play a crucial role in agriculture by fixing atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. This process not only enriches the soil but also helps in reducing its acidity. Therefore, the correct answer is B) reducing the acidity of the soil.

Option A) reducing the alkalinity of the soil is incorrect because cyanobacteria do not primarily reduce alkalinity; instead, they can thrive in alkaline conditions.

Option C) neutralising the alkalinity of the soil is misleading, as cyanobacteria do not specifically neutralise alkalinity but can contribute to a balanced nutrient profile.

Option D) water logging is unrelated to the beneficial effects of cyanobacteria; in fact, water logging can be detrimental to plant health.

In summary, cyanobacteria help farmers by improving soil health and reducing acidity, making option B the most accurate choice.