Question 90 from UPSC CSE 2014 - Science and Technology

Question

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding vegetative propagation of plants?
1. Vegetative propagation produces clonal population.
2. Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus.
3. Vegetative propagation can be practiced most of the year.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. 1 and 3 only

Strategy: Evaluate each statement based on the principles of vegetative propagation. Confirm that it produces genetically identical clones (Statement 1 is correct). Determine that it does not eliminate viruses from infected parent plants (Statement 2 is incorrect). Acknowledge that it is not limited by seasonal constraints like seed propagation (Statement 3 is correct). Select the answer option that includes only statements 1 and 3.

Key Info: Vegetative propagation is an asexual reproduction method where new plants are generated from vegetative parts like stems, roots, or leaves, rather than from seeds.

This process results in clonal populations, producing offspring that are genetically identical to the parent plant.

Common methods include:
- Cuttings
- Layering
- Grafting
- Tissue culture

Standard vegetative propagation cannot eliminate viruses; if the parent plant is infected, the offspring will also be infected. While some advanced tissue culture techniques, such as meristem culture, can produce virus-free plants, this is not a characteristic of typical vegetative methods.

This technique allows for propagation throughout much of the year because it is not strictly dependent on flowering cycles or plant dormancy. This flexibility makes it highly valuable for commercial horticulture and for the rapid multiplication of desirable plant varieties.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 2 and 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: 1, 2, and 3