Question

Which is the best method of germplasm conservation?
(a) Botanical Garden
(b) Seed Bank
(c) Herbarium
(d) Zoological Park

Answer 1

Hint: This is the best method to combat the loss of genetic diversity in rare or injured plant species to conserve biodiversity ex-situ.

Complete answer:
Seed banks are the best method of germplasm conservation. Endangered plants are preserved in seed banks which are also called germplasm banks. These are cryogenic laboratories with the facility of preserving seeds for up to a century or more without losing their fertility. It can also refer to a special kind of arboretum where seeds are harvested and the crop is rotated. For plants that cannot be preserved in seed banks, for conserving their germplasm the only alternative way is conserving their germplasm in its vitro storage. Here cuttings of plants are kept under strict conditions in glass vessels.
In a general sense, an arboretum is a botanical collection composed exclusively of trees.
Seeds of citrus fruits, avocado, coconut, coffee, cocoa, oak, papaya, walnut, and willow are some examples of species that are preserved in seed banks.

Note:
Germplasm lives as genetic resources that are maintained for animal and plant breeding, preservation, and also for other research uses. Collection of germplasm can range from a collection from wild species to the elite, and also domesticated breeding lines that have been extensively selected by humans. For the maintenance of biological diversity and food security, germplasm collection is important.