Genetically improved crop varieties can be developed by
(a) Somatic hybridization
(b) Transgenic technology
(c) Somaclonal variations
(d) Both a and b

Options

A. Somatic hybridisation
B. Transgenic technology
C. Somaclonal variations
D. Both A and B

Answer

To determine how genetically improved crop varieties can be developed, let's analyze the options provided:

1. **Understanding Somatic Hybridization**:
- Somatic hybridization, also known as somatic fusion or protoplast fusion, is a technique where protoplasts (cells without cell walls) from two different plant species are fused together. This results in a hybrid cell that can develop into a new plant with characteristics from both parent plants. This method is effective in creating genetic variation and improving traits in crops.

**Hint**: Somatic hybridization involves fusing cells without walls to create hybrids.

2. **Understanding Transgenic Technology**:
- Transgenic technology involves the introduction of a gene from one organism into the genome of another organism. This is done by isolating the desired DNA fragment and inserting it into the host organism's DNA. This method allows for the direct modification of specific traits in crops, making it a powerful tool for developing genetically improved varieties.

**Hint**: Transgenic technology modifies crops by inserting specific genes from other organisms.

3. **Understanding Somaclonal Variation**:
- Somaclonal variation refers to the genetic variation that occurs in plants regenerated from tissue culture. While it can lead to the development of new traits, it is generally less controlled and predictable compared to somatic hybridization and transgenic technology. Therefore, it is not the primary method for developing genetically improved crop varieties.

**Hint**: Somaclonal variation results from tissue culture but is less reliable for specific improvements.

4. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A**: Somatic hybridization - Correct, as it can produce genetically improved varieties.
- **Option B**: Transgenic technology - Correct, as it directly modifies the genetic makeup of crops.
- **Option C**: Somaclonal variations - While it can induce variation, it is not the best method for developing improved varieties.
- **Option D**: Both A and B - This is the best choice since both somatic hybridization and transgenic technology are effective methods for developing genetically improved crop varieties.

**Final Answer**: The correct choice is (d) Both A and B.