Production of healthier offspring, viable seeds and formation of new varieties are good characteristics

Analyze the question: The question asks which type of pollination is associated with healthier offspring, viable seeds, and the formation of new varieties.

Concept:

• Self-pollination is the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of the same flower or another flower on the same plant. It gives little genetic variation, so offspring are genetically similar to the parent and can inherit weaknesses. No new varieties form easily.
• Cross-pollination is the transfer of pollen from the anther of one plant to the stigma of a different plant of the same species. It mixes genes from two parents.

Step-by-step solution:

1. Healthier offspring: Mixing genes from two different parents brings hybrid vigour (heterosis). The offspring are usually stronger and better able to resist disease and adapt to the environment.
2. Viable seeds: Cross-pollination generally produces seeds with a better chance of germinating and surviving.
3. New varieties: Gene recombination between two different parents produces new combinations of traits, so new varieties arise. Plant breeders use this deliberately to develop improved crops such as high-yielding maize or cassava.

Checking the other options:

• A. Self-pollination: Gives uniform offspring with little variation and can lead to weakness over generations. Not correct.
• C. Wind pollination and D. Insect pollination: These are agents of pollination, not types of pollination in the genetic sense. Each can result in cross- or self-pollination, so they do not by themselves explain the benefits listed.

Answer: B. Cross pollination

Exam tip: Remember "Cross = Change." Cross-pollination brings genetic variation, hybrid vigour, and new varieties. Self-pollination keeps things the same, so look for words like "pure line" or "uniform" in questions about it.