Answer
A triploid plant has three sets of chromosomes, which means that many chromosome copies have no partner during meiosis, leading to a mess that will leave the plant unable to make gametes or, from them, seeds. The asexual reproduction of the plant means that it has no genetic diversity except what rare mutations generate. This means, in turn, that any pathogen which effectively attacks one plant can attack all Cavendish plants, since they are genetically identical.
Work Step by Step
This question asks you to review the chapter's discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of sexual reproduction and to apply them to solve the case of the Cavendish banana. Especially consider the events of meiosis I/chromosomal pairing and the genetic diversity arising from crossing over.
