Why subculturing resembles propagation by cuttings—choose the best reason In micropropagation, which statement best explains why subculturing is considered analogous to propagation by cuttings in conventional horticulture?

Introduction / Context:
Subculturing (multiplication stage) in micropropagation parallels the logic of taking cuttings: you partition a parent shoot into smaller, autonomous units that then root or elongate into new plants. Understanding this analogy clarifies workflow design in the tissue culture lab.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Microshoot clusters are produced on cytokinin-rich media.
• Subculture involves dividing these clusters and transferring to fresh medium.
• Conventional cuttings also partition a plant into units that can root and grow independently.

Concept / Approach:
Focus on the operational similarity: physical separation of propagules and providing a growth-supportive environment. Unlike grafting/budding, no scion-rootstock union is created during subculture.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Protocols describe regular subculture intervals where clusters are divided; this mirrors nursery schedules for taking and rooting cuttings.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• (b) Refers to grafting terminology; not part of subculture.
• (c) Conventional cuttings are ex vitro, not in vitro.
• (d) and (e) overstate or misstate the practice.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming subculturing equals grafting or that all propagation occurs in vitro; the analogy is about partitioning shoots, not method identity.

Final Answer:
It separates multiple microshoots and places each on fresh medium for independent growth