Improvement in Crop Yields MCQs

Q1. A wheat breeder wants a new variety that ripens early so a second crop can be sown the same season; which agronomic trait is she directly selecting for?

• A.A shorter duration from sowing to harvest
• B.More leaves to increase photosynthesis
• C.A taller stem to catch more sunlight
• D.Larger roots for deeper anchorage

Answer: A. A shorter duration from sowing to harvest

Fitting a second crop in the same season needs a fast-maturing variety. Short duration (fewer days from sowing to harvest) is the trait that allows multiple cropping.

Q2. On a windy plateau, a maize grower keeps losing tall plants that snap and fall flat before harvest; breeding for which characteristic would best solve this?

• A.Broader leaves for more shade
• B.A longer growing season
• C.Brighter flower colour
• D.Dwarf, sturdy stems resistant to lodging

Answer: D. Dwarf, sturdy stems resistant to lodging

Plants falling flat before harvest is lodging. A dwarf variety with a short, strong stem resists wind and does not lodge, protecting the yield.

Q3. A farmer in a region with very short, light rains needs a crop that survives on little water; which variety property should he look for?

• A.Tolerance to waterlogging
• B.Tallness
• C.Brighter grain colour
• D.Drought tolerance

Answer: D. Drought tolerance

Light, scanty rain means water scarcity. A drought-tolerant variety can complete its life cycle with little water, so it is the correct choice.