Question

It is very difficult to produce hybrids in case of interspecific and intergeneric crosses. Why? Briefly describe the technique to obtain such novel hybrids.

Hint:

Embryo rescue enables growth of hybrid embryos from incompatible crosses by culturing them in vitro to overcome natural reproductive barriers.

Answer 1

Challenges in producing interspecific and intergeneric hybrids: Producing hybrids between different species (interspecific) or genera (intergeneric) frequently encounters obstacles. These include genetic incompatibility, unsuccessful fertilization, or hybrid infertility. Natural hybrid formation is hindered by disparities in chromosome count, gene control, or reproductive processes. Method for obtaining novel hybrids: The Embryo Rescue Technique is frequently employed to surmount these challenges:

• Following a cross between two incompatible species or genera, the hybrid embryo is surgically removed from the developing seed before it fails.
• The excised embryo is then cultivated in a laboratory setting on a nutrient-rich medium under sterile conditions.
• This in vitro cultivation enables the embryo to mature into a viable plant, circumventing natural barriers to development.

This procedure facilitates the creation of novel hybrids that are typically unattainable or exceptionally difficult to produce through traditional breeding methods.