Question

Which of the following is NOT an advantage of cross-pollination?

Options

• Production of genetic recombination leading to new useful characters

• Wastage of large amounts of pollen energy

• Seeds are larger, more viable, and germinate better

• Offspring are healthier and more vigorous due to hybrid vigour

Answer 1

Wastage of pollen is listed as a disadvantage, not an advantage of cross-pollination. Plants must produce huge amounts of pollen as an external agency is required for pollination, which is energy-costly and economically inefficient. The other options represent actual advantages of cross-pollination.