The fungus often studied in experimental genetics and also called "Drosophila of plant kingdom" is

Options

A. Erysiphe
B. Rhizopus
C. Aspergillus
D. Neurospora

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for a specific fungus that is often studied in experimental genetics and is referred to as the "Drosophila of the plant kingdom".

2. **Identifying Key Terms**: The term "Drosophila of the plant kingdom" is a significant clue. Drosophila is a genus of small flies (fruit flies) commonly used in genetic research. This suggests that the answer will be a fungus that is similarly important in genetic studies.

3. **Analyzing the Options**: The options provided are:
- Erysiphe
- Rhizopus
- Aspergillus
- Neurospora

4. **Researching Each Option**:
- **Erysiphe**: This is a genus of fungi known for causing powdery mildew but is not widely used in genetic studies.
- **Rhizopus**: This is a genus of molds, commonly known for bread mold, but it is not primarily used in genetic research.
- **Aspergillus**: This is a genus of fungi that includes species used in fermentation and medicine but is not specifically known as a model organism in genetics.
- **Neurospora**: This genus, particularly Neurospora crassa, is well-known in genetics for its use in studying biochemical mutations and is often referred to as the "Drosophila of the plant kingdom".

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the fungus that is often studied in experimental genetics and is called the "Drosophila of the plant kingdom" is **Neurospora**.

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