How continuous self pollination leads in breeding depression. Explain?
Continuous self pollination can lead to breeding depression due to several reasons. In this process, the pollen from the anther of a flower is transferred to the stigma of the same flower or another flower on the same plant. This process is common in plants that have small and inconspicuous flowers or that lack pollinators.
Genetic Diversity Reduction
Continuous self pollination can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity within a population. When plants self-pollinate, they are essentially mating with themselves. This means that the offspring produced will have the same genetic makeup as the parent plant. Over time, this can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity within the population.
Accumulation of Harmful Mutations
Another consequence of continuous self pollination is the accumulation of harmful mutations. When plants mate with themselves, there is a greater chance that harmful mutations will be passed on to the offspring. Over time, this can lead to a build-up of harmful mutations within the population, which can negatively affect the health and fitness of the plants.
Lowered Adaptability
Plants that are continuously self-pollinated are less adaptable to changes in their environment. This is because they lack the genetic diversity needed to adapt to changing conditions. For example, if a disease or pest were to affect a population of self-pollinating plants, there would be a greater chance that the entire population would be wiped out because they lack the genetic diversity needed to resist the disease or pest.
Reduced Yield and Quality
Finally, continuous self pollination can lead to a reduction in yield and quality of the plants. This is because self-pollinated plants are more likely to suffer from inbreeding depression, which is a reduction in fitness due to the mating of closely related individuals. This can lead to a reduction in yield and quality of the plants, which can have negative impacts on agriculture and food production.
In conclusion, continuous self pollination can lead to breeding depression due to a reduction in genetic diversity, the accumulation of harmful mutations, lowered adaptability, and reduced yield and quality of the plants. It is important to promote cross-pollination in plants to maintain genetic diversity and ensure their health and fitness.
How continuous self pollination leads in breeding depression. Explain?
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Inbreeding depression is the reduced biological fitness in a given population as a result of inbreeding, or breeding of related individuals. Continued self-pollination reduces the fertility and even productivity of the plant.