One bacterium used extensively in genetic engineering as vector for the transfer to genetic material in plants

Options

A. Agrobacterium tumefaciens
B. Bacillus thuringiensis
C. Clostridium septicum
D. Xanthomonas citri

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Question**: The question asks for a specific bacterium that is extensively used in genetic engineering as a vector for transferring genetic material into plants.

2. **Consider the Options**: The options provided are:
- A) Agrobacterium tumefaciens
- B) Bacillus thuringiensis
- C) Clostridium septicum
- D) Xanthomonas citri

3. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **A) Agrobacterium tumefaciens**: This bacterium is known for its role in genetic engineering. It has a tumor-inducing plasmid (T.I. plasmid) that allows it to transfer T-DNA into plant cells, causing crown gall disease. This is a key mechanism used in genetic engineering to introduce new genes into plants.
- **B) Bacillus thuringiensis**: This bacterium produces insecticidal proteins but is not primarily used as a vector for gene transfer in plants.
- **C) Clostridium septicum**: This bacterium is associated with food poisoning and is not involved in genetic engineering.
- **D) Xanthomonas citri**: This bacterium causes canker disease in citrus plants and is not used as a vector for genetic engineering.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **A) Agrobacterium tumefaciens**, as it is the bacterium used extensively in genetic engineering for transferring genetic material into plants.

**Final Answer**: Agrobacterium tumefaciens

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