Rice crop was destroyed by a fungus which resulted in Bengal famine (1942-43). It was due to

Options

A. Xanthomons malvacearum
B. Pyricularia oryzae
C. Helminthosporium oryzea
D. Puccinia graminis

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Event**: The question refers to the Bengal famine that occurred between 1942 and 1943, which was linked to the destruction of rice crops.

2. **Understand the Cause**: The famine was caused by a significant shortage of rice due to crop failure. This crop failure was attributed to a fungal infection.

3. **Identify the Fungal Pathogen**: The specific fungus responsible for the destruction of the rice crop is known as *Helminthosporium oryzae*.

4. **Explain the Impact of the Fungus**: *Helminthosporium oryzae* causes a disease in rice plants, which manifests as brown spots on the leaves. This disease severely affects the health of the rice plants, leading to widespread crop destruction.

5. **Conclude the Answer**: The destruction of rice crops by *Helminthosporium oryzae* resulted in the Bengal famine of 1942-1943 due to the lack of available rice for the population.

6. **Final Answer**: The fungus responsible for the rice crop destruction leading to the Bengal famine is *Helminthosporium oryzae*.

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