Selective Breeding
Overview
Every breed of dog, every variety of wheat, and every high-yield dairy cow exists because humans chose which organisms to breed together. Selective breeding - also called artificial selection - is one of the oldest technologies in agriculture, yet its genetic principles are the same ones that drive modern biotechnology.
This short but important topic covers how farmers and breeders select plants and animals with desirable characteristics, breed them over many generations, and gradually shape entire populations. You will also learn why this process carries risks, particularly the reduction in genetic variation known as inbreeding.
Objectives
- Understand how selective breeding can develop plants with desired characteristics
- Understand how selective breeding can develop animals with desired characteristics
Mind map
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Flashcards
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Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Selective Breeding. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- What is selective breeding also known as? A) Genetic modification B) Artificial selection C) Natural selection D) Cloning Answer: B
- Which of the following is a risk of selective breeding? A) Increased genetic variation B) Faster evolution C) Reduced gene pool D) Extinction of the species Answer: C
- From which wild plant have cauliflower, broccoli, and kale all been selectively bred? A) Wild carrot B) Wild brassica C) Wild wheat D) Wild rose Answer: B
- Why must selective breeding be repeated over many generations? A) The desired trait disappears after one generation B) Not all offspring will show the desired characteristic C) The organisms need time to mutate D) Inbreeding only occurs after ten generations Answer: B
- Which characteristic would a farmer most likely select for in dairy cattle? A) Thick fur B) High milk yield C) Long horns D) Dark colour Answer: B
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