Question

In selling heterozygosity is lost by how much in each generation.

• A. 1/4
• B. 1/3
• C. 1/2
• D. 2/3

Hint:

Selfing is the fastest way to increase homozygosity in a population. The proportion of heterozygotes is always halved with each successive generation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Selfing (self-fertilization) is the most extreme form of inbreeding. In each generation of selfing, the proportion of heterozygotes is halved. For example, if you start with a population that is 100% heterozygous (Aa), after one generation of selfing, the offspring will be 25% AA, 50% Aa, and 25% aa. The heterozygosity has dropped from 100% to 50%. Therefore, heterozygosity is lost by 1/2 in each generation.