Question

The crossing with wild relatives is beneficial because it helps in the transfer of

• A. disease resistance gene
• B. pest resistance gene
• C. drought resistance gene
• D. all of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D all of the above

Crop wild relatives (CWR) are wild plant species that are genetically related to cultivated crops. Untended by humans, they continue to evolve in the wild, developing traits such as drought tolerance, pest resistance, or disease resistance that farmers and breeders can cross with domesticated crops to produce new varieties.

CWR have been used to improve the yields and nutritional quality of crops since the beginnings of agriculture. Farmers often plant CWR alongside domesticated crops to promote natural crossing of beneficial traits. Genes from wild plants have also provided cultivars with resistance against pests and diseases and improved tolerance to abiotic stresses.