Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Cybridization (fusion yielding cytoplasmic hybrids)
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Some breeding and biotechnology methods aim to combine nuclear and cytoplasmic components from different parents. Cytoplasmic hybrids (cybrids) can acquire mitochondria or plastids that improve energy metabolism or cytoplasmic male sterility traits.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Cybridization involves protoplast fusion followed by selection for desired cytoplasm (mitochondria/chloroplasts), potentially enhancing respiratory or photosynthetic efficiency or introducing CMS. While protoplast fusion is the physical technique, “cybridization” denotes the outcome emphasizing cytoplasmic exchange.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Classical plant cell culture literature describes cybrids with novel mitochondrial/plastid complements improving metabolic traits.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Chlybridization” is uncommon/ambiguous terminology; “protoplast fusion” is generic; “Mibridization” is not standard; somatic embryogenesis does not create cytoplasmic hybrids.
Common Pitfalls:
Using the umbrella term (protoplast fusion) when the intended outcome is specifically a cytoplasmic hybrid.
Final Answer:
Cybridization (fusion yielding cytoplasmic hybrids)
Discussion & Comments