What is a common example of biological control involving mycoviruses?

The correct answer highlights a significant role of mycoviruses in the context of biological control, specifically in infecting pathogenic fungi. Mycoviruses are viruses that infect fungi, including many plant pathogens. Their ability to invade and disrupt the life cycles of these harmful fungi offers a natural method to limit fungal diseases in crops. By targeting and weakening pathogenic fungi, mycoviruses can reduce their virulence, thus lowering disease incidence and providing an ecological approach to pest management.

This method of biological control is particularly advantageous because it complements other pest management strategies without the downsides typically associated with chemical pesticides, such as chemical residues or resistance development in pathogens. The use of mycoviruses can foster a more sustainable agricultural system by enhancing the activities of beneficial organisms in the soil while suppressing detrimental ones.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of how mycoviruses function in biological control. For instance, infecting beneficial fungi does not align with the traditional goal of biological control, which is to reduce harmful organisms. Enhancing plant growth is outside the direct influence of mycoviruses, and controlling bacterial infections does not pertain to the activity of mycoviruses, as they specifically target fungal pathogens. Therefore, the focus on