Select the incorrect statement w.r.t plant breeding

Options

A. In many crops pre-existing genetic variability is available from wild relatives of the crop
B. Progeny plants with superior characters are self-pollinated for several generations till they reach a state of heterozygosity
C. Hybrid breeding have led to development of several high yielding varieties resistance to water stress
D. Conventional method of breeding for disease resistance is that of hybridisation and selection

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Plant Breeding**: Plant breeding is a technique that involves crossing two genetically different plants to produce a new progeny with superior traits. This process aims to enhance characteristics such as yield, disease resistance, and tolerance to stressful conditions.

2. **Analyzing Statements**: The question asks to select the incorrect statement regarding plant breeding. We need to evaluate each provided statement to determine its validity.

3. **Evaluating the First Statement**: The first statement mentions that "in many crops, pre-existing genetic variability is available from wild relatives of the crop." This statement is correct as wild relatives often possess beneficial traits that can be utilized in breeding programs.

4. **Evaluating the Second Statement**: The second statement claims that "progeny plants with superior characters are self-pollinated for several generations till they reach a state of heterozygosity." This statement is incorrect because self-pollination leads to homozygosity, not heterozygosity. Heterozygosity is achieved through cross-pollination.

5. **Evaluating the Third Statement**: The third statement states that "hybrid breeding has led to the development of several high-yielding varieties resistant to water stress." This is a correct statement, as hybrid breeding is known for producing high-yielding and stress-resistant varieties.

6. **Evaluating the Fourth Statement**: The fourth statement mentions that "the conventional method of plant breeding for disease resistance is hybridization and selection." This is also correct, as hybridization and selection are traditional methods used to enhance disease resistance in crops.

7. **Conclusion**: After evaluating all the statements, the second statement is identified as incorrect. Therefore, the answer to the question is that the incorrect statement is: "Progeny plants with superior characters are self-pollinated for several generations till they reach a state of heterozygosity."

---