(a) Explain four causes of damage to maize during storage. (b) Two heterozygous tall plants, Tt, were crossed in an experiment. Using a genetic diagram, (i)...

(a) Explain four causes of damage to maize during storage.
(b) Two heterozygous tall plants, Tt, were crossed in an experiment. Using a genetic diagram, (i) show the possible offspring that could result from the cross. (ii) determine the:
1. genotypic ratio of the offspring:
2. phenotypic ratio of the offspring.
(c) State Mendel's first and second laws of inheritance.
(d) Mention two forage grasses.

Answer Details

(a) The four causes of damage to maize during storage are:

1. Insects and pests: Insects such as weevils, moths, and beetles can infest stored maize, causing damage to the kernels.
2. Fungi: Fungi can grow on maize that is stored in damp conditions, causing mold and rot that can make the maize unfit for consumption.
3. High moisture content: Maize that is stored with a high moisture content can become moldy, or can sprout, leading to spoilage and loss of quality.
4. Physical damage: Maize can be damaged during storage due to rough handling, which can lead to broken kernels and reduced quality.

(b)

(i)

(ii)

1. Genotypic ratio: 1 TT : 2 Tt : 1 tt
2. Phenotypic ratio: 3 tall : 1 short

(c)

Mendel's first law of inheritance, also known as the law of segregation, states that individuals inherit two copies of each gene, one from each parent, and that these copies segregate during gamete formation, so that each gamete carries only one copy of each gene.

Mendel's second law of inheritance, also known as the law of independent assortment, states that the inheritance of one gene does not affect the inheritance of another gene, as long as the genes are located on different chromosomes.

(d) Two forage grasses are:

1. Timothy grass: Timothy grass is a cool-season grass that is commonly used for hay and grazing. It is known for its high yield and nutritional value, and is often used for feeding livestock.
2. Bermuda grass: Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that is well-suited to hot, dry climates. It is often used for grazing, hay production, and erosion control, and is also used as turfgrass in lawns and athletic fields.