Question: 136. Which of the following are fused in somatic hybridization involving two varieties of plants?
(1) Callus
(2) Somatic embryos
(3) Protoplasts
(4) Pollens
Answer: Option (3)
Explanation:
Somatic hybridization is a technique in plant biotechnology in which two different plant cells are fused to form a hybrid cell.
In this process, the cell wall of plant cells is removed enzymatically to produce naked cells called protoplasts.
These protoplasts from two different plant varieties or species are then fused using chemical agents like polyethylene glycol or by electrofusion.
The fused protoplast develops into a hybrid cell, which can regenerate into a complete hybrid plant under suitable culture conditions.
Callus and somatic embryos are products of tissue culture but are not directly fused in somatic hybridization.
Pollens are involved in sexual reproduction, not somatic hybridization.
Therefore, the correct answer is protoplasts.