Question

The image below shows a banana plant which is growing with the help of suckers. These suckers are small plant stem outgrowths which can be separated from the main plant and planted separately and they will grow into a new plant subsequently.

1. Give the name and type of reproduction that is shown in the image above.
2. List two advantages the farmer will have on using the type of reproduction mentioned above.
3. The above plant produces male flowers. Explain how this plant will be involved in the process of pollination.
4. Why is the offspring of this banana plant not absolutely identical to its parent plant?

Answer 1

1. The type of reproduction shown is asexual reproduction, specifically vegetative propagation through suckers.
2. 1. Faster production of new plants.
   2. The new plants are genetically identical to the parent, ensuring desirable traits.
3. Cross-pollination: The pollen from anther will be transferred to the stigma of another banana plant using agents like wind, water insects, etc.
4. The offspring may not be absolutely identical to the parent due to potential mutations or environmental factors that can affect growth.