Question

Protoplast fusion results in
A. Parasexual/somatic hybridisation
B. Genetic hybridisation
C. Male sterility
D. Rapid growth and acclimatisation

Answer 1

Hint: Protoplast is a cell without the cell wall. Protoplast fusion involves fusing two different species of plants to form a new hybrid. The fusion occurs simultaneously or is induced by chemicals.

Complete step by step answer:
To solve this question we must know about the significance of protoplasm fusion.
Protoplast fusion is a type of genetic modification in which the two distinct species of plant are fused to form a new hybrid. It does not involve fusion of genes or genetic characters. For example hybrid between wheat and rye to form triticale or between flowering and non-flowering potato.
In this method, the cell wall of the cells is removed. Then the cells are fused by chemical treatment of electric shock. The hormones are further given for regenerating cell walls.
Characteristic of somatic hybridisation-
It is the only means of reproduction of the organisms which cannot reproduce sexually or are sterile.
Protoplast of sexually sterile plants produces fertile diploids.
It overcomes sexual compatibility problems. Thus have wide application in plant breeding.
Genetic hybridisation- It is the interbreeding of two genes to form a hybrid. The hybrid contains the two alleles of the same gene.

The correct answer is (A). Protoplast fusion results in somatic hybridisation.

Note:
Protoplast fusion is an important tool in plant breeding to form hybrids. It is an alternate way of producing hybrids in which the species cannot be cross bred. It involves inheritance of useful genes.