Q.7 The different methods to overcome self incompatibility are
(A). mixed pollination
(B). bud pollination
(C). stub pollination
(D). intra-ovarian pollination
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. (A), (B) and (D) only.
2. (A), (B) and (C) only.
3. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
4. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Self-incompatibility in plants prevents self-fertilization, and specific pollination techniques can overcome it effectively. The correct answer is 1. (A), (B) and (D) only.

Methods to Overcome Self-Incompatibility

Correct Answer

Option 1. (A), (B) and (D) only is accurate. These methods—mixed pollination, bud pollination, and intra-ovarian pollination—reliably bypass self-incompatibility barriers in gametophytic and sporophytic systems by altering pollen delivery timing, mixture, or site.

Option Breakdown

(A) Mixed Pollination

Valid method. Involves applying a mixture of compatible (often irradiated or killed) and self-incompatible pollen to the stigma; the compatible pollen supports incompatible tube growth, enabling fertilization.

(B) Bud Pollination

Widely successful. Pollinating flower buds 2-7 days before anthesis allows pollen tubes to grow before full incompatibility develops, effective in species like Petunia.

(C) Stub Pollination

Not standard. While “stub pollination” appears in some texts as cutting the style/stigma to bypass upper barriers, it’s less commonly recognized or effective compared to others; often omitted or mis-termed in precise lists.​

(D) Intra-Ovarian Pollination

Proven technique. Pollen suspension is injected directly into the ovary, circumventing stigma/style barriers; successful in Argemone species for seed set.