Question

It is very difficult to produce hybrids in case of interspecific and intergeneric crosses. Why? Briefly describe the technique to obtain such novel hybrids.

Hint:

Embryo rescue enables growth of hybrid embryos from incompatible crosses by culturing them in vitro to overcome natural reproductive barriers.

Answer 1

Difficulty in producing interspecific and intergeneric hybrids: Interspecific (between species) and intergeneric (between genera) crosses often face barriers such as genetic incompatibility, failure of fertilization, or hybrid sterility. Differences in chromosome number, gene regulation, or reproductive mechanisms prevent successful hybrid formation naturally. Technique to obtain novel hybrids: Embryo Rescue Technique is commonly used to overcome these barriers:

• After a cross between two incompatible species or genera, the hybrid embryo is excised from the seed before it aborts.
• The embryo is cultured in vitro on a nutrient medium under sterile conditions.
• This allows the embryo to develop into a viable plant despite natural incompatibility.

This technique helps produce novel hybrids that are otherwise difficult or impossible through conventional breeding.