Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other one is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Bacillus megaterium is an efficient P-solubilizing bacteria. Reason (R): Bacillus megaterium produces different organic acids for dissolution.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is A

Why option (a) is correct
· Assertion (A) is true
· Bacillus megaterium is widely used as a phosphate-solubilizing bacterium (PSB) in agriculture.
· It enhances availability of insoluble phosphorus to plants.
· Reason (R) is true
· The bacterium secretes organic acids (citric, oxalic, gluconic acids, etc.).
· These acids lower soil pH and dissolve insoluble phosphates.
· Link between A and R
· The production of organic acids is the primary mechanism of phosphate solubilization.
· Hence, (R) correctly explains (A).
❌ Why other options are incorrect
· (b): Incorrect because the reason does explain the assertion.
· (c): Incorrect because the reason is true.
· (d): Incorrect because the assertion is also true.
�� Key Points
· PSB improve P availability in soil.
· Organic acid production → phosphate dissolution.
· Bacillus megaterium is commonly used as a biofertilizer.
✔️ Final Answer: Option (a)