Question

What is the oldest form of biotechnology?

Answer 1

Biotechnology is one of the branches of science that deals with modification of living processes of organisms such that it helps in improving the human race thus increasing standards of living.

Complete answer
Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing branches of science. Today it has developed into
many sub branches that touch various dimensions of life. However, amongst all, Selective
breeding is considered as the oldest form of biotechnology.
Selective breeding is a technique that deals with creation of artificial organisms. In this
process, artificial mating takes place between the two individuals (carrying desired
characteristics) of some specific species in the artificial environment of laboratories. Such a
method leads to formation of offsprings of desired characteristics. This offspring is later
employed to increase its population by various methods in order to prevent wastage of
resources from repetition of the process of selective breeding for the same species.
This kind of breeding technique is applicable for both plants and animals. In the case of
animals, this method is used to increase productivity of the animal. for example - Cows are
made to mate with such a breed that can increase their milk yielding capacity thus,
benefiting the dairy farmers in making money. Similarly, in the case of plants, this method is
used to produce fortified organisms, that is, food with increased levels of nutrition. Such a
food is highly consumed by humans all over the world. Thus, it is preferably grown by farmers.
For example - Pomato, which is a combination of Potato and Tomato.

Note:
GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) are those organisms who get their genes
artificially modified. Although this is one of the methods of biotechnological research that
aims at creating individuals of desired characteristics, is not considered selective breeding as
Unlike the latter it does not involve mating between the species.