Q170 / 180 · NEET 2020 (Phase 2) · Zoology

Inbreeding depression is:

  • A
    Reduced motility and immunity due to close inbreeding
  • B
    Decreased productivity due to mating of superior male and inferior female
  • C
    Decrease in body mass of progeny due to continued close inbreeding
  • Correct answer
    D
    Reduced fertility and productivity due to continued close inbreeding

Solution

Inbreeding refers to the mating of closely related animals within the same breed for about 4-6 generations. Inbreeding helps in the development of animals of genetic purity. It promotes homozygosity and expression of recessive genes is observed. Continuous inbreeding leads to inbreeding depression, which affects the productivity and quality of animal products as well as health. The inbreeding depression can be eliminated by crossing animals to the same breed's superior animal but having no common ancestors on both sides.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'D'.

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