Tumor inducing (Ti) plasmid transforms :

Options

A. plants
B. fungi
C. bacteria
D. animals

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Ti Plasmid**: The tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid is a type of plasmid that is derived from a specific bacterium known as *Agrobacterium tumefaciens*.

2. **Function of Ti Plasmid**: The Ti plasmid acts as a vector, which means it serves as a vehicle to transfer genetic material into another organism. It is capable of carrying small circular DNA and has the ability to self-replicate.

3. **Composition of Ti Plasmid**: The Ti plasmid contains a segment of DNA known as T-DNA (Transfer DNA). This T-DNA is responsible for the transformation process.

4. **Effect of T-DNA**: When the T-DNA is transferred into a plant cell, it integrates into the plant's genome and causes the formation of tumors, specifically leading to a condition known as crown gall disease.

5. **Target Organism**: The primary target of the Ti plasmid is higher plants. It is specifically designed to transform plant cells, making them the correct answer to the question.

6. **Elimination of Other Options**: Other options such as fungi, bacteria, and animals are incorrect because the Ti plasmid specifically induces transformation in higher plants.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that the tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid transforms higher plants.

**Final Answer**: Tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid transforms higher plants.

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