Which one of the following groups of plants was domesticated in the ‘New World’ and introduced into the ‘Old World’?

The correct option is Tobacco, cocoa and rubber.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding 'New World' vs. 'Old World':
In historical and biogeographical contexts, the 'New World' refers to the Americas (North, South, and Central America, along with nearby islands), whereas the 'Old World' refers to Africa, Asia, and Europe.

2. The Columbian Exchange:
Following Christopher Columbus's voyages in 1492, a widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, and technology occurred between the Americas and the Afro-Eurasian hemispheres. This transfer is known as the Columbian Exchange.

3. Plant Origins Analysis:
Let us analyze the native geographical origins of the plants mentioned in the options:

• Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum): Native to Mesoamerica and South America (New World). Introduced to Europe and Asia after European exploration.
• Cocoa (Theobroma cacao): Native to the Amazon basin and Central America (New World). Used by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations (Mesoamericans, Mayans, Aztecs) and later brought to the Old World.
• Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis): Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America (New World). Later introduced to tropical regions of Asia and Africa in the Old World.

4. Evaluating Other Options:

• Cotton: Varieties exist in both New and Old Worlds, but Old World cultivation of Gossypium herbaceum occurred early in India and Africa.
• Coffee: Native to Ethiopia and the Arabian Peninsula (Old World).
• Sugarcane: Native to New Guinea/Southeast Asia (Old World).
• Wheat: Native to the Fertile Crescent in Southwest Asia (Old World).

Therefore, the plant group consisting of Tobacco, cocoa and rubber was domesticated in the New World (Americas) and subsequently introduced to the Old World.