Linkage in plants was first shown in

Options

A. Zea mays
B. Lathyrus odoratus
C. Oenothera lamarckiana
D. Pisum sativum

Answer

To solve the question "Linkage in plants was first shown in," we will follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Concept of Linkage
Linkage refers to the tendency of genes located close to each other on the same chromosome to be inherited together. This means that they do not assort independently during meiosis, leading to a lower probability of crossing over between them.

**Hint:** Remember that linkage involves genes on the same chromosome that are closely located.

### Step 2: Identify the Scientists Involved
The concept of linkage was first discovered by scientists Bateson and Punnett in the year 1906. They conducted experiments to demonstrate this phenomenon in plants.

**Hint:** Look for the names Bateson and Punnett when discussing the discovery of linkage.

### Step 3: Determine the Plant Used in the Discovery
Bateson and Punnett demonstrated linkage using the plant Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as the sweet pea. This plant was crucial in their experiments to show how certain traits were inherited together.

**Hint:** Sweet pea is the key plant associated with the discovery of linkage.

### Step 4: Review the Options Provided
The question likely provides multiple-choice options. Based on the information gathered, we can conclude that the correct answer is Lathyrus odoratus.

**Hint:** Cross-reference the options with the information about Bateson and Punnett's work.

### Step 5: Finalize the Answer
After analyzing the information, we conclude that the correct answer to the question is that linkage in plants was first shown in Lathyrus odoratus.

**Hint:** Ensure that your final answer matches the historical context of the discovery.

### Final Answer
Linkage in plants was first shown in **Lathyrus odoratus** (sweet pea).