Hybrid seeds need to be essentially produced year after year. Why?

Options

A. (a) To cope up with segregation of characters.
B. To preserve hybrid characters.
C. Both (a) and (b)
D. Correct option is not given

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hybrid Seeds**: Hybrid seeds are produced by cross-breeding two different parent plants to create a new variety that has desirable traits from both parents. These seeds are known for their uniformity and improved characteristics such as higher yield, disease resistance, and better adaptability.

2. **Segregation of Characters**: When hybrid seeds are planted, the offspring may not exhibit the same traits as the hybrid parent due to genetic segregation. This means that the traits can separate during reproduction, leading to variability in the characteristics of the plants produced from these seeds.

3. **Preservation of Hybrid Characters**: To maintain the specific traits that make hybrid seeds desirable, it is necessary to produce new hybrid seeds each year. If seeds are saved from hybrid plants and replanted, the resulting plants may not retain the hybrid characteristics, as they will segregate into different phenotypes.

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, hybrid seeds need to be produced year after year to ensure that the hybrid characteristics are preserved and that the plants maintain the desired traits. This is essential for farmers and agricultural producers who rely on the consistency and quality of hybrid crops.

5. **Correct Answer**: The correct answer to the question is option C: both A and B. This means hybrid seeds need to be produced year after year to cope with the segregation of characters and to preserve hybrid characteristics.

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