Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Bialaphos (pro-herbicide of glufosinate; broad-spectrum efficacy)
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Bialaphos is a microbial tripeptide that releases glufosinate (phosphinothricin) in planta, inhibiting glutamine synthetase and causing ammonia accumulation and plant death. It has been evaluated across cropping systems, including rice, for control of annual and perennial weeds and woody shrubs in non-crop situations.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
When a question points to efficacy against both perennial shrubs and annual weeds, a broad-spectrum non-selective herbicide fits best. Bialaphos/glufosinate is consistent with such a profile and has been studied in paddy systems and around rice culture, subject to registration and label constraints by country.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Field trials and literature show glufosinate efficacy across diverse weed flora; herbicidin is more dicot-selective and less used for grasses; cycloheximide/anisomycin are not standard field herbicides.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming rice-system herbicides must be grass-selective; some are non-selective but used in specific management windows or non-crop areas.
Final Answer:
Bialaphos (pro-herbicide of glufosinate; broad-spectrum efficacy).
Discussion & Comments