Question

Write any two advantages of producing plants by micro-propagation.

Hint:

Give two points such as rapid mass production in small space and genetically identical, disease-free plants.

Answer 1

Step 1: Recall micropropagation:
Micropropagation is the method of producing many plants from a small plant part (explant) in a sterile nutrient medium under controlled conditions.
It is a form of plant tissue culture.

Step 2: Advantage 1:
A very large number of plants can be produced in a short time and in a small space, from a single explant.
This is useful for crops that multiply slowly, such as orchids and banana.

Step 3: Advantage 2:
All the plants are genetically identical to the parent (somaclones). So the good traits of a high-yielding variety are kept unchanged.

Step 4: Other points (for revision):
Using meristem tips gives disease-free plants. The work can go on all year, regardless of season.

Final Answer:
Two advantages: (1) mass production of plants in a short time and small space; (2) the plants are genetically identical to the parent.