Step 1: What is Inbreeding?
Inbreeding refers to the mating of closely related individuals, which increases the chance of offspring inheriting identical genes from both parents.
Step 2: Inbreeding and Homozygosity
Inbreeding typically increases homozygosity, not decreases it. Since closely related individuals are likely to share similar genes, their offspring have a higher chance of inheriting two identical copies of the same gene (homozygosity).
Step 3: Conclusion
The statement "Inbreeding decreases homozygosity" is incorrect because inbreeding tends to increase homozygosity.
The correct answer is (B) : Inbreeding decreases homozygosity.
The correct answer is: (B) Inbreeding decreases homozygosity.
Inbreeding refers to the mating of closely related individuals, and it is commonly used in animal breeding and plant cultivation to maintain desirable traits within a population. However, inbreeding has certain effects on the genetic diversity of a population.
Option (B) is incorrect because inbreeding actually increases homozygosity. This occurs because closely related individuals are more likely to share similar alleles, and their offspring will inherit these alleles from both parents, leading to a higher frequency of homozygous genotypes. Over time, this can result in a population with reduced genetic diversity and increased risk of inheriting recessive genetic disorders.
On the other hand, inbreeding may also lead to the expression of undesirable traits that were previously hidden in heterozygous individuals. This is why inbreeding is often limited in breeding programs, and controlled outbreeding is preferred to maintain genetic health and vitality.