Question

The correct combination of somaclonal variant released as a new cultivar is -

• A. Barley - Andro
• B. Geranium - Velvet Rose
• C. Tomato - DAMA
• D. Sugarcane - Scarlet

Hint:

Remember that somaclonal variation is a source of new traits. Key examples include disease resistance in sugarcane, salt tolerance in tomato ('DAMA'), and improved tuber shape in potato.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Somaclonal variation is the genetic variation observed among plants regenerated from tissue culture. Sometimes, these variations can be advantageous and are selected to be released as new crop varieties (cultivars). The question asks for a correct example of this.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Barley - Andro: The name 'Andro' suggests it was developed via androgenesis (haploid breeding from pollen culture), not somaclonal variation.
Geranium - Velvet Rose: This is often cited as a somaclonal variant of the Geranium cultivar 'Rober's Lemon Rose'. This is a potentially correct option.
Tomato - DAMA: 'DAMA' is an Italian tomato variety that was specifically selected from somaclonal variants for its enhanced tolerance to saline conditions. This is a well-documented and correct example.
Sugarcane - Scarlet: 'Scarlet' is a known cultivar of Pelargonium (Geranium), not sugarcane. The crop and cultivar name are mismatched.
Both (B) and (C) are technically correct examples found in literature. However, in the context of common textbook examples for agricultural crops, the development of a salt-tolerant tomato like 'DAMA' is a very strong and specific case of using somaclonal variation for crop improvement. Given the options, it stands out as a clear and intended answer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The combination Tomato - DAMA represents a cultivar developed through the selection of somaclonal variants.