Crop case study: which tropical fruit crop was successfully engineered to resist a lethal viral disease, enabling recovery of production in affected regions?

Introduction / Context:
Papaya production in Hawaii was devastated by papaya ringspot virus (PRSV). Transgenic papaya expressing viral coat protein provided effective resistance and restored the industry, serving as a landmark in plant biotechnology.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• PRSV causes severe yield loss and fruit deformities.
• Conventional control was ineffective once the virus became widespread.
• Coat-protein–mediated resistance can prevent successful infection.

Concept / Approach:
By inserting a PRSV coat protein gene into papaya, the plant interferes with the virus life cycle, conferring high levels of field resistance. The varieties (e.g., Rainbow, SunUp) demonstrated durable protection and became a success story for biotech crops beyond the major cereals.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Public records and peer-reviewed studies document the dramatic rebound of Hawaiian papaya after adoption of PRSV-resistant transgenic lines.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A/C/D/E: While viruses affect many fruits, the celebrated, well-documented transgenic rescue case is papaya vs PRSV.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing this with citrus greening (bacteria) or banana bunchy top (different pathosystem); those require other strategies.

Final Answer:
Papaya (resistant to papaya ringspot virus)