Question

Breeding a crop variety involves several activities. Arrange the steps of a plant breeding program in correct chronological order-
(A). Selection of superior recombinants
(B). Collection, evaluation, and selection of diverse genotypes for hybridization
(C). Hybridization among selected parental genotypes
(D). Multilocational testing and release of a variety for commercial release
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (B), (C), (A), (D).
• B. (D), (B), (C), (A).
• C. (B), (A), (D), (C).
• D. (C), (B), (D), (A).

Hint:

Always start a breeding program by establishing genetic diversity (germplasm collection) and end it with multi-locational testing and commercial release.
This simplifies identifying the correct sequence in multi-step questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Plant breeding is the purposeful manipulation of plant species to create desired genotypes and phenotypes for agricultural use.
Developing a new crop variety follows a logical, step-by-step scientific workflow: gathering genetic diversity, crossing selected parents, isolating superior offspring, and evaluating performance prior to commercial release.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us trace the chronological steps of a standard plant breeding program:
1.

Step 1: Collection of Variability (B): Genetic variation is the raw material for any breeding program.
The program begins with the collection, evaluation, and characterization of germplasm (diverse genotypes, wild relatives, and landraces) to identify potential parents with desirable traits.
2. Parental Selection and Hybridization (C): After identifying diverse genotypes, selected parents are crossed (hybridized) to combine desirable traits from different lines into a single recombinant genotype.
3.

Step 2: Selection of Superior Recombinants (A): The hybrid progeny (\( F_2 \) and subsequent segregating generations) are grown, and breeders select individual plants that combine the desired traits of both parents.
This step requires careful phenotypic and genotypic evaluation to identify superior recombinants.
4.

Step 3: Evaluation, Release, and Commercialization (D): The selected superior recombinants are multiplied and evaluated in multi-locational yield trials across different seasons and agro-climatic zones.
Lines that perform consistently well are registered, certified, and officially released for commercial cultivation.
Thus, the correct chronological sequence is (B) \( \rightarrow \) (C) \( \rightarrow \) (A) \( \rightarrow \) (D).

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct chronological order of the plant breeding steps is (B), (C), (A), (D), corresponding to option (A).