Consider statements about microorganisms: 1. Bacteria can be beneficial or harmful. 2. Fungi are used in food production. 3. Viruses are living outside a host. Which are correct? MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Bacteria exhibit diverse roles; many are beneficial (e.g., gut flora, nitrogen fixers, decomposers), while some are pathogenic and cause diseases. Fungi are extensively used in food production, such as yeast (Saccharomyces) in baking and brewing, and molds (Penicillium) in cheese making (e.g., Roquefort, Camembert). Viruses are considered non-living outside a host cell because they lack metabolic machinery and cannot replicate independently; they only exhibit living characteristics when inside a host. Thus, statements 1 and 2 are correct.