Which group most commonly causes biotic plant diseases?

Biotic plant diseases are caused by living organisms that infect plants, leading to various effects on their health and growth. The group that most commonly causes these diseases includes fungi, bacteria, and viruses.

Fungi are particularly notorious for causing a wide range of plant diseases, such as powdery mildew, root rot, and blight. They thrive in various environments and can reproduce quickly, making them significant contributors to agricultural losses.

Bacteria can cause diseases like bacterial wilt and crown gall, characterized by symptoms such as wilting, yellowing, and the formation of galls on plant tissues. They can spread through water, soil, and plant-to-plant contact, further amplifying their impact on crops.

Viruses, although smaller and simpler than fungi and bacteria, also play a major role in plant diseases. They can cause symptoms like stunted growth, mosaic patterns on leaves, and reduced yield. Viruses often spread through vectors such as insects or through direct contact between plants.

The other options provided do not encompass the full range of organisms that lead to biotic diseases in plants. Options focusing solely on viruses neglect the significant roles played by fungi and bacteria, while the consideration of insects and nematodes highlights another aspect of plant health but does