Question

A collection of plants and seeds having diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop is called?

• A. Gene library
• B. Genome
• C. Germplasm
• D. Herbarium

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Germplasm

The correct option is C.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Germplasm collection refers to the complete collection of plants and seeds having diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop.
2. Germplasm is a natural source of genetic variability.
3. The collection of germplasm is necessary for breeding, preservation, and research purposes.
4. An example of germplasm conservation is a ‘seed bank’ where seeds of endangered plants are preserved.

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option A:

1. A gene library contains cloned DNA sequences that are used for research purposes.
2. Cloning is achieved by using vectors such as plasmids.

Option B:

1. Genome refers to the complete set of the genetic material of an organism.
2. For Example, the human genome comprises about 3 billion nucleotides.

Option D:

1. Herbarium is a diverse collection of plant specimens that are dried, mounted, and preserved on sheets.
2. Herbarium specimens include pressed plants, etc.

Final answer: A collection of plants and seeds having diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop is called germplasm.