Apomixis is a form of asexual reproduction that occurs in plants, where seeds are produced without fertilization. In apomictic reproduction, the embryo develops directly from the maternal plant's tissues, bypassing the usual process of fertilization and meiosis (cell division that generates gene...
Apomixis is a form of asexual reproduction that occurs in plants, where seeds are produced without fertilization. In apomictic reproduction, the embryo develops directly from the maternal plant's tissues, bypassing the usual process of fertilization and meiosis (cell division that generates genetic diversity). As a result, the offspring are genetically identical to the parent plant.
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AGP-602 Topic:- Apomixis & It’s Commercial Utilisation Submitted By:- BHARGAV BHATT I.D.:- 54429 Submitted To:- Dr. Usha Pant Mam
APOMIXIS Apomixis is a natural method of asexual reproduction in plants, leading to the development of seeds without the need for fertilization. It is a fascinating phenomenon with significant implications in agriculture and plant breeding .
Types Of Apomixis In apomictic species, sexual reproduction is either suppressed or absent. When sexual reproduction also occurs, the apomixis is termed as facultative apomixis . When sexual reproduction is absent, it is referred to Obligate apomixis . Also it can be classified as, Nonrecurrent – When embryos arise from haploid cells, apomixis is termed as non recurrent because the progeny so obtained cannot be maintained further. Recurrent – When embryos arise from diploid cells, apomixis is called recurrent as the progeny so obtained can be perpetuated indefinitely. Also a Simplified Classification Of Apomixis recognises two main groups as follows: Adventitious Embryony (Ex.:- Mango, Citrus, Orchids, etc.) Gametophytic Embryony 1. Apospory (Ex.:- Hieraceum , Malus , Ranunculus,etc .) 2. Diplospory a) Parthenogenesis b) Pseudogamy
Genetics of Apomixis In general terms, the following three sets of genes appear to be involved in female meiosis and reproduction :
Development of Apomictic lines Apomictic lines can be developed by the following three different approaches:
Advantages of Apomixis in Plant Breeding 1 Genetic Stability Preservation of desirable genetic traits and characteristics without genetic recombination, ensuring stability across generations. 2 Rapid Crop Improvement Allows quick fixation of beneficial traits in new varieties, accelerating the breeding process for improved crops. 3 Reduction in Labor Minimizes the need for extensive hybridization efforts and simplifies seed production through asexual pathways. 4 Enhanced Crop Uniformity Results in uniformity in crop traits, offering consistency in agronomic performance and market preferences.
Commercial Utilization of Apomixis Breeding Programs Integration of apomixis into breeding programs to enhance crop yields, quality, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Production of Homozygous Lines Some type of Apomixis involve parthenogenetic development of reduced egg cells, followed by Reduplication or cell fusion or development of embryos from secondary diploid cells of the embryo sac derived through fusion Fixation of heterosis Apomixis lead to fixation of heterosis since apomictic progeny of hybrids have the same genotype as the hybrid. Seed Production & development of Vybrids Large-scale production of apomictic seeds for commercial distribution and use in agriculture and horticulture.
Examples of Crops Utilizing Apomixis Citrus Fruits Several citrus varieties utilize apomixis , ensuring consistency in fruit quality and characteristics. Buffalo Grass It is a well-known example of a turfgrass that benefits from apomixis for uniform and durable sod production. Mango Varieties Apomixis is employed in certain mango cultivars to maintain the specific traits and flavor profiles of the fruit. Brachiaria Grass Widely used for pasture and forage, brachiaria grass varieties leverage apomixis for seed production and genetic stability.
Challenges and Limitations of Apomixis in Plant Breeding Maintaining Genetic Diversity The absence of genetic recombination may limit the creation of new combinations and the introduction of novel traits. Quality Control Ensuring genetic purity and traceability of apomictic seeds poses challenges for maintaining varietal identity and integrity. Regulatory Frameworks Adherence to regulations and intellectual property rights for apomictic varieties adds complexity to their commercial use.