Consider the following statements: 1. Some mushrooms have medicinal properties. 2. Some mushrooms have psychoactive properties. 3. Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties. 4. Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties. How many of the above statements are correct?

Answer: D. All four statements about mushrooms are correct. (1) Medicinal properties: CORRECT. Many mushrooms (Lingzhi/Reishi, Cordyceps, Lion's Mane) have documented medicinal uses ranging from immune support to neurological benefits. Penicillin and statins were originally derived from fungi. (2) Psychoactive properties: CORRECT. Psilocybin mushrooms (Psilocybe species) contain psilocybin/psilocin and cause hallucinogenic effects. Studied today for treatment-resistant depression. (3) Insecticidal properties: CORRECT. Some fungi (Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae) are deployed as bio-insecticides against crop pests. Other mushrooms produce toxic alkaloids that deter insects. (4) Bioluminescent properties: CORRECT. About 80 mushroom species (Mycena, Omphalotus, Panellus) glow in the dark via luciferin-luciferase reactions. India's 'fox-fire fungi' have been documented in Western Ghats. Source: NCERT Class 11 Biology Ch 2 (Biological Classification) / mycological literature.