Question:

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: In DUS trials, the number and nature of varieties largely determines the use of experimental design.
Reason R: Randomized Incomplete Block Design is the most used experimental design in DUS trials.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below

Show Hint

DUS trials are mandated by UPOV guidelines.
Always remember: RCBD is the workhorse of agricultural field experiments, while Incomplete Block Designs are specialized tools for handling large numbers of treatments/varieties.
  • Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • Both A and R are correct but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
  • A is correct but R is not correct
  • A is not correct but R is correct
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question pertains to the DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) testing procedures conducted for the protection of plant varieties.
DUS trials are essential for granting Plant Breeder's Rights (PBR) as they ensure that a new variety is truly unique and stable across generations.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:


Assertion Analysis: In DUS trials, a candidate variety must be compared with several "reference varieties" (similar varieties already in common knowledge).
The total number of varieties in a trial can range from a few to several hundred depending on the crop.
The nature of these varieties (e.g., height, flowering time) and their total count directly dictate the choice of the experimental design to ensure statistical precision.
Thus, Assertion A is True.

Reason Analysis: While it is true that for a very large number of varieties, incomplete block designs (like Alpha-Lattice designs) are utilized to manage block size and soil heterogeneity, they are not the "most used" design.
The Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) remains the standard and most frequently utilized experimental design for DUS trials globally, provided the number of comparison varieties is manageable.
If the number of varieties exceeds the capacity for a single homogeneous block, only then are incomplete block designs preferred.
Therefore, the generalization in Reason R makes it incorrect.
Final Answer:
Assertion A correctly identifies the factor influencing experimental design, but Reason R inaccurately generalizes the usage of incomplete block designs.
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