Question

The reason Mendel chose Pisum sativum as the experimental material was because:

• A. through single mating, these plants produce a large number of seeds
• B. they have well-defined observable characteristics
• C. these plants can undergo cross-pollination easily
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

Mendel spotted several advantages in choosing pea plants (Pisum sativum) as the experimental material.
Some of them have been enlisted as follows:

• These are annual in nature.
• These have a short life span.
• These can be grown and crossed easily.
• These plants produce bisexual flowers and undergo self-pollination. However, they can also undergo cross-pollination through the technique of emasculation and bagging.
• Through single mating, they produce a large number of seeds which can be easily grown and the progeny can be studied.
• These plants have well-defined observable characters and Mendel studied seven characters.