Select the correct combination of terms from plant breeding systems that represents selfing or promote selfing.​​

Correct option is B

In plant breeding systems, selfing refers to the process where pollen from a flower fertilizes the ovules of the same plant, promoting self-pollination.

1. Cleistogamy (Selfing Mechanism):

• Cleistogamy is a condition where flowers remain closed and prevent cross-pollination.
• Since the flowers do not open, self-pollination is ensured.
• Example: Pea (Pisum sativum), Viola, Commelina, and Oxalis.

2. Geitonogamy (Selfing Mechanism):

• Geitonogamy is a type of self-pollination where pollen from one flower transfers to another flower on the same plant.
• Although it involves pollinators, genetically, it is considered selfing because the pollen donor and recipient belong to the same plant.
• Example: Maize (Zea mays), Cucurbits, and Sunflower.

Information Booster:

1. Selfing helps in maintaining genetic purity in plant species.
2. Cleistogamous flowers do not require pollinators and promote obligate selfing.
3. Geitonogamy is functionally cross-pollination but genetically self-pollination, as both flowers belong to the same plant.
4. Autogamy is also a selfing method where pollen from the same flower fertilizes its ovule.
5. Selfing can lead to inbreeding depression, reducing genetic variation and fitness.
6. Many crops like wheat and rice exhibit self-pollination to maintain genetic stability.
7. Cross-pollination (Allogamy) increases genetic diversity, while selfing ensures species propagation in the absence of pollinators.