Plant breeder who developed the first hybrid was

Options

A. Fairchild
B. Mendel
C. Swaminathan
D. Maheshwari

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the name of the plant breeder who developed the first hybrid.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- A) Fairchild
- B) Mendel
- C) Swaminathan
- D) Maheshwari

3. **Researching Each Option**:
- **Fairchild**: Thomas Fairchild is known for developing the first artificial hybrid in 1770, specifically the hybrid known as the "Fairchild's mule," which was a cross between Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) and Carnation Pink (Dianthus caryophyllus).
- **Mendel**: Gregor Mendel is recognized as the father of genetics for his foundational work on inheritance patterns in pea plants, but he did not develop the first hybrid.
- **Swaminathan**: M.S. Swaminathan is known for his work in agricultural science and for introducing high-yield varieties of wheat in India, but he is not associated with the first hybrid.
- **Maheshwari**: Maheshwari is known for his contributions to plant tissue culture and androgenic haploids, but he did not develop the first hybrid.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the information researched, the correct answer is Thomas Fairchild, as he was the first to develop an artificial hybrid.

5. **Final Answer**: The plant breeder who developed the first hybrid was Thomas Fairchild.

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