Question

Select the correct statements regarding somaclonal variations
A. These variations can also result in unwanted traits.
B. Somaclones have been developed and proved advantageous in several crops.
C. These variations can be used to engineer novel traits.
D. Short term invitro callus and cell suspension, cultures results in somaclonal variation.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. A, C and D Only
• B. A, B and C Only
• C. A and B Only
• D. A and D Only

Hint:

Remember that somaclonal variation is a double-edged sword: it can be a valuable source of novel traits for crop improvement but can also lead to unwanted changes. The key cause is stress during {long-term} culture, not short-term.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept Overview:
Somaclonal variation refers to genetic variations in plants regenerated from in vitro cell or tissue cultures. The question requires identifying correct statements about this phenomenon.
Step 2: Statement Analysis:
Analyzing each statement:
A. These variations can also result in unwanted traits. Correct. Genetic changes during tissue culture are random, leading to desirable, neutral, or undesirable traits, such as reduced yield or poor growth.
B. Somaclones have been developed and proved advantageous in several crops. Correct. Somaclonal variation has been successfully used to select for advantageous traits like disease resistance (e.g., in sugarcane, potato) and improved yield or quality.
C. These variations can be used to engineer novel traits. Correct. Somaclonal variation is a source of new genetic diversity. Screening large populations of regenerated plants (somaclones) allows breeders to identify and select for novel traits not present in the original plant.
D. Short term invitro callus and cell suspension, cultures results in somaclonal variation. Incorrect. Somaclonal variation is typically induced by culture environment stress over a long period. Short-term cultures are generally more genetically stable. Longer culture times increase the frequency of mutations and variations.
Step 3: Conclusion:
Statements A, B, and C are correct; statement D is incorrect. Therefore, the correct option includes A, B, and C only.