Question

Mention the strategy used to increase homozygosity in cattle for desired traits.

Answer 1

To increase the homozygosity for desired traits in cattle the scientists have developed a strategy in which mating of genetically related organisms or individuals takes place.

Complete step by step answer:
The strategy which is employed to extend homozygosity in cattle for desired traits is inbreeding.
The Inbreeding process is the mating of closely related individuals within an equivalent breed for 4-6 generations. Inbreeding increases homozygosity and helps in evolving pure line cattle.
- Inbreeding helps in the accumulation of superior genes and the elimination of less desirable genes.
- Mating of closely related organisms or individuals through common ancestry is called inbreeding. - This process helps in retaining the desired characteristics and also in eliminating the undesired characteristics.
- Because of the combined effect of harmful genes present in the recessive trait of both the parents the inbreeding can also result in decreased size and fertility of the offspring.
- Selfing or self-fertilization is the closest type of inbreeding in which the union of male and female sex cells is produced by the same organism.
- The linebreeding is also a type of inbreeding that involves the selection of mates based on their relationships to a certain superior ancestor.
- Another type of inbreeding is backcross which is a general or the most common method of inbreeding in which a first- generation hybrid is crossed with one of its parental types.

Note:
- In humans, inbreeding increases the risk of infertility.
- In humans, it also causes birth defects like cleft palates, heart conditions, facial asymmetry, low birth weight, slow growth rate, etc.
- Selfing or self- fertilization is the closest type of inbreeding in which the union of male and female sex cells is produced by the same organism.