Question

How is pure line selection a better method for crop improvement?

Answer 1

Pure line selection is a better method for crop improvement because:

1. It involves selecting progeny from a single self-fertilized homozygous plant, ensuring genetic purity.
2. Each selected plant’s progeny is tested separately, allowing precise evaluation.
3. The resulting varieties are genetically pure and stable (durable).
4. Unlike mass selection, it avoids mixing of heterozygous plants, leading to uniformity.
5. It produces varieties better adapted for consistent performance.
6. It is useful in both self-pollinated and cross-pollinated crops (for producing pure lines).
7. The method leads to stable, superior varieties ideal for farming and breeding programs.