The Question is from neet-zoology , and it was created by the author T HARITHA

Question

In a plant species that reproduces through apomixis, a mutation arises in a somatic cell that confers resistance to a fungal pathogen. What is the likelihood that this resistance trait will be passed on to the offspring?

T HARITHA · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: B
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Apomixis and inheritance of somatic mutations
 **Related Topics**: Plant reproduction, genetics, somatic mutations, heredity
 **Prerequisites**: Understanding of apomixis, somatic cells, germline cells, and inheritance patterns.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  * Plant reproduces via apomixis (asexual reproduction).
  * Mutation occurs in a somatic cell (non-reproductive cell).
  * Mutation confers fungal resistance.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Understand Apomixis: Apomixis is a type of asexual reproduction in plants where seeds are formed without meiosis or fertilization. The offspring are genetically identical clones of the parent plant.
  Reasoning: This means the offspring develop from the maternal tissues directly, bypassing the usual sexual reproduction process.
  Formula/Rule: None directly applicable.
 2. Consider Somatic Mutation Inheritance:  Somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells. They are generally not inherited by the offspring in sexually reproducing organisms.
  Working: However, in apomixis, since offspring are clones of the parent, a somatic mutation in a cell that contributes to seed formation can be passed on.
  Key Point: The location of the somatic mutation within the plant is crucial. If the mutation is in a cell lineage that contributes to seed development through apomixis, it *will* be inherited.
 3. Determine Likelihood: Since the offspring are essentially clones, the likelihood of the mutation being passed on is high, provided the mutated somatic cell contributes to the development of the seed.
  Result: High likelihood of inheritance.
  Verification: The definition of apomixis directly supports this conclusion.  Asexual reproduction leads to clones.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x:  While somatic mutations are typically not heritable in sexual reproduction, this is not the case with apomixis.
B ✓: Correct. Apomixis creates clones, so a somatic mutation in a cell that contributes to seed formation will be passed on.
C :x: Dominance or recessiveness is irrelevant in apomixis because the offspring are genetically identical clones.
D :x:  Apomixis does involve the maternal gametophyte, but the entire maternal tissue contributes to the development of the seed, not just the gametophyte. A somatic mutation in a cell contributing to seed formation will be passed on.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1. Assuming somatic mutations are never heritable: This is true for sexual reproduction but not for apomixis.
  2. Confusing apomixis with sexual reproduction: Understanding the fundamental difference is crucial.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1. Remember that apomixis produces genetically identical offspring.
  2. Focus on the fact that the offspring are clones of the parent plant.

T HARITHA · Answer

Low, as somatic mutations are rarely heritable.

T HARITHA · Answer

The correct Option is "High, as apomixis bypasses meiosis and fertilization."

T HARITHA · Answer

Dependent on whether the mutation is dominant or recessive.

T HARITHA · Answer

Zero, as apomixis only involves the maternal gametophyte.

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