A collection of plants and seeds having diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop is called :

Options

A. Gene library
B. Genome
C. Herbarium
D. Germplasm

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
- The question asks for the term that describes a collection of plants and seeds that possess diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop.

2. **Analyzing the Options:**
- The options provided are:
1. Gene library
2. Genome
3. Herbarium
4. Germplasm

3. **Defining Each Option:**
- **Gene Library:** A collection of DNA sequences or genes that can be used for research and genetic engineering. It does not specifically refer to a collection of plants and seeds.
- **Genome:** The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism. This term refers to the genetic makeup but not to a collection of plants and seeds.
- **Herbarium:** A collection of preserved plant specimens used for scientific study. While it involves plants, it does not focus on the genetic diversity of crops.
- **Germplasm:** This term refers to the living genetic resources, such as seeds or tissues, that are maintained for breeding and conservation purposes. It specifically includes diverse alleles of genes.

4. **Identifying the Correct Answer:**
- Based on the definitions, the correct answer is **Germplasm**. It is the term that accurately describes a collection of plants and seeds containing diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop.

5. **Conclusion:**
- The collection of plants and seeds having diverse alleles of all the genes of a crop is called **Germplasm**.

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