Question

(b) Explain how producing the enzymes that digest α-pinene is beneficial to the bacterial species living within the nematodes.

Answer 1

It enables it to be left with little or no resistance

Step-by-step explanation:

The pinewood nematode , Bursaphelenchus xylophilus is a plant-parasitic nematode that causes severe death of pine trees.

The pine trees developed a mechanism over the years by producing a chemical compound called α-pinene . This helps in fighting against the nematodes. If enzymes are produced to digest this chemical then the pine wood nematode will thrive well and result in the death of the pine trees.