Question

The improved open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) in maize have the following advantages-
(A). Easier to develop than hybrids
(B). Seed production is simpler and relatively inexpensive
(C). Superior in yield than the hybrids
(D). Subsistence farmers can save their own seeds for planting in the following season
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

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

Hint:

Commercial hybrids always outyield Open-Pollinated Varieties (OPVs) due to controlled heterosis.
However, OPVs are preferred by resource-poor, subsistence farmers because their seeds are cheap and can be saved and replanted for multiple seasons.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In maize (Zea mays), breeders develop different types of cultivars, primarily hybrids (single-cross or double-cross) and Open-Pollinated Varieties (OPVs, including synthetics and composites).
Each variety type has distinct genetic structures, yielding capacities, and seed production requirements.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each statement regarding the advantages of Maize OPVs:
- Statement (A) is correct: OPVs are developed through simpler breeding methods like mass selection, recurrent selection, or compositing.
They do not require the intensive development, inbreeding, and testing of parental lines (GCA and SCA) needed for hybrid breeding, making them easier and faster to develop.
- Statement (B) is correct: Seed production of OPVs is conducted in open-pollinated isolation plots.
Unlike hybrid seed production, it does not require manual detasseling, separate male/female planting rows, or specialized labor.
This makes the seed production process simpler and much less expensive.
- Statement (C) is incorrect: Hybrids exploit maximum heterosis (hybrid vigor) and are systematically superior in yield compared to OPVs.
OPVs are genetically heterogeneous and exhibit lower levels of heterosis, so their average yield is lower than that of commercial hybrids.
- Statement (D) is correct: Because OPVs are genetically balanced, open-pollinated populations with a broad genetic base, they do not undergo severe genetic segregation or inbreeding depression in the \( F_2 \) generation.
Therefore, subsistence farmers can save their harvested seeds and replant them for several subsequent seasons with minimal loss in yield, unlike hybrids.
Thus, statements (A), (B), and (D) are correct, while (C) is incorrect.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (B) (A), (B) and (D) only.