What term describes a cross between two different plant genera?

What term describes a cross between two different plant genera?

• A. Intergeneric cross
• B. Interspecific cross
• C. Intraspecific cross
• D. Intragenic cross

Answer: (A)

Crossing plants from two different genera is described as an intergeneric cross. The prefix inter- means between, and a genus is a classification level above species, so this term specifically covers crosses that span different genera. This differs from interspecific crosses, which occur between species within the same genus, and from intraspecific crosses, which occur within the same species. The intragenic option isn’t a standard way to describe a cross between genera. Intergeneric crosses are more challenging because the larger genetic and chromosomal differences often create reproductive barriers, though breeders can sometimes overcome them with techniques like embryo rescue or using bridging species.

Crossing plants from two different genera is described as an intergeneric cross. The prefix inter- means between, and a genus is a classification level above species, so this term specifically covers crosses that span different genera.

This differs from interspecific crosses, which occur between species within the same genus, and from intraspecific crosses, which occur within the same species. The intragenic option isn’t a standard way to describe a cross between genera. Intergeneric crosses are more challenging because the larger genetic and chromosomal differences often create reproductive barriers, though breeders can sometimes overcome them with techniques like embryo rescue or using bridging species.