Question

Explain selective breeding. Give any 'two' examples and their nutrients obtained by selective breeding. 

Answer 1

a. In selective breeding method, plant breeders search seed or germplasm banks for existing varieties of crops which are naturally high in nutrients. 

b. Then, they crossbreed these high-nutrient varieties with high-yielding varieties of crops, to provide seeds with high yields and increased nutritional value. 

c. Crops with sufficient amounts of nutrients must be bred to have a measurable positive impact on human health. 

d. Such crops must be developed with the involvement of nutritionists and should have extra nutrients, as storage, processing and cooking of the food affects their available
nutrient levels. 

Examples:
1. Hybrid maize with almost double the quantity of amino acids like lysine and tryptophan. 

2. Wheat variety, Atlas-66 with high protein content.