Question

If you applied a fungicide to a cornfield, what would you expect to happen to the rate of decomposition and net ecosystem production (NEP)?

(A) Both decomposition rate and NEP would decrease.

(B) Neither would change.

(C) Decomposition rate would increase and NEP would decrease.

(D) Decomposition rate would decrease and NEP would increase.

Short answer

(A) The option ‘Both decomposition rate and NEP would decrease’ is false.

(B) The option ‘Neither would change’ is false.

(C) The option ‘Decomposition rate would increase and NEP would decrease’ is false.

(D) The option ‘Decomposition rate would decrease and NEP would increase’ is true.

Step-by-step solution

Fungicide

Fungicide is a chemical compound formulated to prevent the spread of pathogenic fungal organisms or their spores.Fungicides are a category of pesticides that helps in maintaining agricultural production.

Explanation of option (A)

The attack on fields from pathogens results in plant death and an increased decomposition rate, and the production rate depletes. If a fungicide is used in cornfields, it will decrease the decomposition rate but not the production rate.

Thus, this statement does not state the correct effect of fungicide on NEP.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option (B)

The application of fungicide on the cornfields will alter both the decomposition rate and the net production rate because it will alter the rate of pathogenic attack on the corn plants.

Thus, the rate of net ecosystem production along with decomposition will be altered.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option (C)

An increase in decomposition rate accompanied by a decrease in net ecosystem production (NEP) will be exhibited when pathogens or pests severely attack the cornfield.

A fungicide controls fungal pathogenic attack. So, a reverse condition will be observed.

Thus, the application of fungicides will not have the effect stated in this option.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option (D)

Fungicides are known to improve crop production by eliminating fungal infections. If the cornfield is treated with fungicides, the net production of that field will increase, and the rate of decomposition will decrease.

Thus, this option correctly states the effects of fungicide application.

Therefore, the given option is true.