Describe the process of micropropagation used to produce large numbers of genetically identical plants from a single parent plant.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 5.4 Cloning · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

1. Small samples (explants) are taken from the parent plant.
2. The explants are placed into a suitable culture medium in a sterile environment.
3. The explants grow into many new plants (micropropagation).
4. The new plants are genetically identical to the parent, preserving its desirable traits.

Examiner tips

Use the word "explants" and "culture medium". Mention that the plants are genetically identical. Show the step‑by‑step flow: sample → medium → growth → clones.
Keep the answer short – 4 points, no extra detail.

Common mistakes

Using vague terms like "cuttings" instead of "explants". Forgetting to state that the plants are genetically identical. Adding irrelevant information such as the type of medium.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Small samples (explants) are taken from the parent plant
Explants are grown in / placed into a suitable medium using tissue culture
The process produces large numbers of plants that are genetically identical (clones) to each other / to the parent
The desirable characteristics of the parent plant are preserved / passed on to all the clone plants

Key terms in this question

micropropagation