Germplasm refers to the genetic material of an organism that is passed down through reproduction, containing the hereditary information.
Step 1: Understanding germplasm.
- Germplasm consists of DNA from an organism's reproductive cells (sperm and egg) and is the foundation for the genetic makeup of future generations.
Step 2: Importance of germplasm.
- Germplasm is crucial in plant and animal breeding, as it contains genetic diversity that can be used to improve or maintain desirable traits.
Final Answer:
Germplasm is the genetic material that is passed on through reproduction, crucial for inheritance and breeding programs.