Artificial seeds are:

Correct option is C

What Are Artificial Seeds?
Artificial seeds, also known as synthetic seeds, are laboratory-produced structures designed to mimic natural seeds.
They are created by encapsulating somatic embryos (embryos derived from somatic or non-reproductive cells) in a protective gel-like coating such as sodium alginate.
�� Key Characteristics of Artificial Seeds:
Contain somatic embryos that can germinate into whole plants, similar to true seeds.
Encapsulation is typically done using calcium alginate.
Used for:
Clonal propagation
Mass multiplication of elite genotypes
Storage and transport of plant material
✅ Why Option (c) is Correct:
Artificial seeds are not made from somatic cells alone (as in option d), but from fully formed somatic embryos, which are capable of developing into plants.
The gel capsule provides protection and nutrients needed for embryo survival and germination.
�� Explanation of Other Options:
(a) Seeds produced in laboratory condition – ❌ Too vague; could refer to any seed produced via lab-grown plants or tissue culture.
(b) Seeds encapsulated in a gel – ❌ Incomplete; doesn’t specify what kind of seed or biological material is used.
(c) Somatic embryos encapsulated in a gel – ✅ Correct, matches the standard definition of artificial/synthetic seeds.
(d) Somatic cells encapsulated in a gel – ❌ Somatic cells can't develop into a plant unless they first become embryos.