Selective Breeding Flashcards
What is selective breeding?
Selective breeding also known as artificial selection is the process by which humans use animal breeding and plant breeding to selectively develop particular characteristics by choosing which animal or plant males and females will sexually reproduce and have offspring together.
What have animals been selectively bred for?
Animals have been selectively bred to produce food. For example chickens are bred to produce eggs and meat. Hens are selectively bred to lay lots of eggs. Cows are also bred for meat or milk and pigs are also bred to produce pork.
what have plants been selectively bred for?
Plants have been selectively bred to become disease resistant and develop high quality crops which can defend against pests, diseases and environmental stresses. This can combat against food shortages, population growth and shortage of energy and water.
what are the problems with selective breeding?
Future generations of selectively bred organisms will all share similar genes. This could make some diseases more dangerous as all organisms would be affected. There’s increased risk of genetic disease caused by recessive genes.
