Question

Write a short note on plant introduction.

Answer 1

Plant introduction is the process of bringing plants from their original habitat to a new locality with a different climate. It aims to acquire superior varieties for agriculture, forestry, and industry; genetic improvement; disease resistance; and study of plant origin and evolution. It includes primary introduction (direct use of introduced plants) and secondary introduction (hybridization with indigenous varieties). The procedure involves procurement, quarantine, cataloging, evaluation, multiplication, and distribution. Plant introduction is a quick, low-cost method to enhance crop diversity, prevent genetic erosion, and obtain new crops. Acclimatization is the gradual adaptation of introduced plants to the new environment over generations.