Question

What is apomixis and what is its importance?

Answer 1

Hint: To continue the existence of line on earth, the process of reproduction is essential.
The process of development of a new organism from a pre-existing organism of a similar kind is called reproduction. On the basis of involvement of gametes, the process of reproduction can be categorized into asexual and sexual reproduction.

Complete Answer:
Apomixis - (Apo- without; mixis-mixing)
- The process in which the development of a new plant takes place without involvement of gametes or without fertilization is called apomixis.
- As the process of apomixis does not involve gametes, the chance of evolution is rare. The new characters or desirable character can be introduced during apomixis but generally the new plant resembles the parent plant.
- Most plant species produce genetically variable seeds by the fusion of mitotically reduced egg cells and pollen grains. However, a small proportion of seed plants produces clonal, asexual seed by the process of apomixis.
- A disadvantage of apomictic seeds is that it reduces genetic diversity from parent to offspring plants due to lack of variations in asexual reproduction.
- Apomixis has tremendous potential for revolutionizing food, feed and fiber production around the world.

Importance of apomixis:
1. Apomixis produces a new plant or generation which is exactly identical to a parent plant.
2. Apomixis helps in low cost and time efficient seed production.
3. Apomixis helps in preservation of good character over generation.
4. New desirable characters can be introduced in progeny.

Note: Apomixis is a method of asexual reproduction and so it should not be connected with fertilization. The different methods of apomixis or its types along with its advantages has to be remembered.