General Science question from Panchayat Secretary (VLW) exam, 2025 by JKSSB
Which of the following is NOT considered as an advantage to using the garden pea for Mendel’s experiments?
Last updated Jun 9, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option C —
True-breeding varieties were scarce
Why this is the correct choice:
In reality, one of the major advantages of using the garden pea (Pisum sativum) was that true-breeding varieties were readily available, not scarce. Mendel was able to source 34 different varieties of peas and narrowed his focus down to 14 true-breeding varieties (representing 7 pairs of contrasting traits) for his experiments.
Why the other options ARE advantages:
(A) Segregation of traits: Because the traits were distinct and controlled by single genes, he could clearly observe and count the segregation of traits (like green vs. yellow seeds) in the offspring.
(B) Short generation time: Pea plants grow and reproduce quickly, allowing Mendel to observe multiple generations of plants in a relatively short period.
(D) Enclosed sex organs: The petals of the pea flower naturally enclose the reproductive organs, which strictly promotes self-pollination. This made it very easy for Mendel to prevent accidental cross-pollination, though he could still manually cross-pollinate them when he wanted to.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
