Question

Choose the incorrect statement with respect to inbreeding depression in plants.

• A. It is the reduced biological fitness in a given population as a result of breeding of related individuals.
• B. It can lead to lower viability in plants.
• C. It can affect many vegetative and reproductive traits of the plants.
• D. The restricted dispersal of pollen is more likely to lessen the inbreeding depression in plants.

Answer 1

The correct option is D The restricted dispersal of pollen is more likely to lessen the inbreeding depression in plants.

Inbreeding depression is the reduced biological fitness in a given population as a result of inbreeding, or breeding of related individuals. Continued self-pollination can decrease the vigour, reduced reproductive capacities, vitality as well as the yield of the plants.
Inbreeding avoidance mechanisms help to counterbalance the high rate of matings between relatives that are expected to occur owing to restricted dispersal. So, restricted dispersal is not likely to lessen the inbreeding depression in plants.