Question

Differentiate between somaclones and somatic hybrids.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Aspect	Somaclones	Somatic Hybrids
1.	Definition	Genetically similar plants to the original parent plant from which explant was taken.	Plants produced by fusing protoplasts of somatic cells from two different varieties or species under aseptic conditions.
2.	Origin	Arise from tissue culture of a single explant.	Result from somatic hybridization via protoplast fusion technique.
3.	Genetic Variation	Usually have some somaclonal variation (genetic variability due to tissue culture).	Contain genetic material from both parent plants, combining traits.
4.	Method of Production	Multiplication through tissue culture starting from explants.	Fusion of protoplasts isolated enzymatically from two plants followed by regeneration.
5.	Purpose/Use	To produce multiple plants identical or similar to the parent; also used to select mutants or variants.	To overcome sexual incompatibility barriers and combine desirable traits from different species/varieties.
6.	Examples or Applications	Used to generate disease-resistant or improved varieties by exploiting somaclonal variation.	Used to create hybrid plants like Raphanobrassica and Solanopersicon by fusing different species.