Question

Parasexual hybridization refers to the fusion of
A. Male gamete with female gamete.
B. Male gamete with synergid.
C. Somatic protoplasts.
D. Male gamete with somatic cell.

Answer 1

Hint:Parasexual hybridization is also known as somatic hybridization. It is a non-sexual process where two separate parent genomes can be recombined between plants.

Complete answer:
The process of fusion of separated protoplasts from somatic cells and regeneration of hybrid plants from fusion materials termed as somatic hybridization or parasexual hybridization. It is totally bypasses sex and thereby makes it possible to merge the genomes of two suitable parents, irrespective of their taxonomic relationship. Cell fusion was used to create a significant number of intergeneric, asymmetric hybrids, interfamily or intertribal symmetrical allotetraploid somatic hybrids, and somatic hybrids. A specific benefit of parasexual hybridization is the development of new variations of nuclear or cytoplasmic genomes, contributing to the enrichment of the existing gene pool.
Parasexual hybridization is a non-sexual process for exchanging genetic material by cell fusion with various characteristics. The fusion protoplast procedure is used for hybridization. Protoplasts are cells with no cell wall. The lack of cell walls helps to remove the obstacles to fusion. Mechanically or using additives, fusogens, the fusion of somatic protoplasts from two plants may be accomplished. Somatic protoplast hybridization is the only way that two separate parent genomes can be recombined between plants that cannot replicate sexually.

Thus, the correct answer is option C. i.e., Somatic protoplasts.

Note:Parasexual hybridization is a non-sexual process for the transmission of genetic material that involves the merging of cells that has various characteristics. This procedure requires the fusion of protoplasts.