The causative agent of ergotism, a disease affecting rye and other cereals, is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Explanation:
Cytoplasm is the semifluid material between the plasma membrane and the nucleus, composed of cytosol, organelles, and inclusions. It is the site of many metabolic reactions. Nucleoplasm is inside the nucleus, protoplasm includes cytoplasm and nucleoplasm, and matrix refers to the inner compartment of mitochondria.

Explanation:
Genetic engineering (recombinant DNA technology) involves the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology to alter its characteristics. Cloning is the process of producing genetically identical copies of a biological entity, such as a gene, cell, or entire organism. Tissue culture (micropropagation) is a technique used to grow plant cells, tissues, or organs in a sterile nutrient medium, allowing for the rapid, large-scale propagation of plants from a small explant. All statements are correct.

Explanation:
After fertilization, the ovary of the flower develops into fruit, while the ovule develops into seed. The ovary wall becomes the pericarp (fruit wall). Petals, sepals, and stamens usually wither. Some fruits are parthenocarpic (without fertilization, e.g., banana). The fruit protects seeds and aids in dispersal. Anther produces pollen grains. Thus, fruit is a mature ovary.