Question

State what is apomixis. Comment on its significance. How can it be commercially used?

Answer 1

Apomixis is the mode of reproduction which does not involve formation of zygote through gametic fusion.
Significance of apomixis:
(i) Adventives embryos are better clones than cuttings.
(ii) Embryos formed through apomixes are generally free from infections.
Hybrid varieties provide higher and better yield. If hybrid seeds are produced ever year, they do not maintain hybrid characters because of segregation of traits. Moreover, production of hybrid seeds every year is very costly. This can be avoided by introducing apomixes in hybrid seeds.