Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This matching question is based on germplasm preservation, clonal crop management, and tissue culture applications.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us trace the correct matches:
A. Germplasm conservation: Germplasm conservation refers to the preservation of genetic resources of plants.
This is achieved via three main approaches: in-situ (in the natural habitat), ex-situ (in seed genebanks, field genebanks, or tissue culture), and cryopreservation (long-term preservation at ultra-low temperatures).
Therefore, A matches with IV (In-situ, ex-situ, cryopreservation).
B. Clonal degeneration: Clonal varieties are vegetatively propagated.
Over successive vegetative generations, their performance, yield, and vigor decline due to the progressive accumulation of systemic pathogens (primarily viruses) and somatic mutations.
Therefore, B matches with I (Virus infection, mutation).
C. DMSO (Dimethyl sulfoxide): DMSO is a low-molecular-weight chemical compound.
In cryopreservation, it is widely used as a cryoprotectant because it penetrates cell membranes, prevents ice crystal growth, and protects cellular membranes during freezing.
Therefore, C matches with II (Cryoprotectant).
D. Virus elimination: Culturing meristems is the main way to eliminate viruses.
Cryotherapy is a technique where shoot tips are briefly treated with liquid nitrogen. Since viruses are absent or present in very low concentrations in the meristematic dome, freezing selectively kills the older infected cells, leaving the uninfected meristematic cells alive to regenerate into virus-free plants.
Therefore, D matches with III (Cryotherapy).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The matches are: A - IV, B - I, C - II, D - III, which matches Option (C).