Question

4. Dr. Smith has just won the award for best new plant at the national show of the African Violet

Society of America. A check of the genetics of the plant shows that it has 45 chromosomes.
(African violets are listed in the literature as 2N=30) To reproduce more award winning-plants in
the future, should Dr. Smith breed it sexually or clone it asexually? Explain.

Answer 1

African violets normally have 30 chromosomes, but the award-winning plant has 45 chromosomes, suggesting genetic changes. Cloning asexually is recommended to preserve the genetic modifications and reproduce more award-winning plants.

Step-by-step explanation:

African violets have a diploid chromosome number of 2N=30, meaning they have 30 chromosomes in each cell. However, the award-winning plant has 45 chromosomes, indicating that it has undergone genetic changes. This abnormal chromosome number could be a result of polyploidy, where the plant has multiple sets of chromosomes.

Since the plant has undergone genetic changes, it is recommended to clone it asexually to reproduce more award-winning plants. Cloning involves taking a cutting from the original plant and allowing it to root and develop into a new plant with identical genetic characteristics. By cloning, Dr. Smith can ensure that the genetic modifications that led to the award-winning traits are preserved in the offspring.

Learn more about Reproduction in plants