Concept
Genomic selection is a modern breeding method that uses genome-wide genetic information to predict the breeding value of individuals, accelerating the selection process in plants and animals. This approach enhances the accuracy of selection by incorporating dense genetic markers, thus improving the efficiency and speed of breeding programs compared to traditional methods.
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Quantitative genetics is the study of how genetic and environmental factors influence complex traits that vary continuously, such as height or milk production. It involves statistical methods to estimate the genetic contribution to these traits and to predict the genetic potential of individuals based on their phenotype and pedigree information.
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Genetic markers are specific sequences in the genome that can be used to identify individuals or species and are crucial for understanding genetic predispositions to diseases. They serve as landmarks for mapping genes associated with particular traits or conditions, facilitating advances in personalized medicine and evolutionary biology.
Concept
Breeding value is a genetic metric used to predict the ability of an individual to pass on desirable traits to its offspring, based on the additive genetic effects of its alleles. It is a crucial concept in animal and plant breeding programs, as it helps in selecting individuals that will improve future generations' genetic quality and performance.
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Linkage Disequilibrium (LD) refers to the non-random association of alleles at different loci in a given population, often due to genetic linkage, selection, or population structure. It is a crucial concept in understanding the genetic architecture of traits and the mapping of disease-associated genes in genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
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Phenotypic selection is the process by which certain traits increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction, leading to those traits becoming more common in a population over time. It acts directly on observable characteristics, or phenotypes, which are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
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Genomic prediction is a method used to predict the genetic value of an individual based on their DNA sequence, enhancing the accuracy of selection in breeding programs. It leverages statistical models to correlate genetic markers with phenotypic traits, enabling more efficient and precise selection decisions compared to traditional methods.
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Marker-assisted selection (MAS) is a process in plant and animal breeding that uses molecular markers to select for desirable traits, significantly speeding up the breeding process compared to traditional methods. By identifying genetic markers linked to specific traits, breeders can make more informed decisions, enhancing efficiency and precision in developing improved varieties or breeds.
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Heritability is a statistical estimate that measures the proportion of observed variation in a particular trait among individuals in a population that can be attributed to genetic differences. It is important to note that heritability does not indicate the extent to which a trait is genetically determined in an individual, nor does it imply immutability of the trait in response to environmental changes.
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Genetic variance refers to the diversity of alleles and genotypes within a population, which contributes to the population's ability to adapt and evolve. It is a crucial component of evolutionary biology, influencing traits and fitness, and is driven by mechanisms such as mutation, recombination, and natural selection.
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Livestock genetics is the study and application of genetic principles to improve the productivity, health, and adaptability of farm animals. It involves the manipulation of genetic material to enhance desirable traits such as growth rate, disease resistance, and reproductive efficiency in livestock populations.
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Genomic architecture refers to the complex arrangement and interaction of genetic elements within a genome that determine the genetic basis of phenotypic traits. It encompasses the number, frequency, and effect size of genetic variants, as well as their epistatic interactions and environmental influences.
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Molecular breeding is a modern plant and animal breeding approach that uses genetic information to enhance and accelerate the selection of desirable traits. It integrates techniques such as marker-assisted selection and genomic selection to improve efficiency and precision in breeding programs.
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Backcrossing is a breeding method used to introduce or maintain a desired trait in a population by crossing a hybrid with one of its parents or an individual genetically similar to its parent. This technique is widely used in plant and animal breeding to improve specific characteristics while retaining the majority of the recipient's genome.
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Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) are regions of the genome that are associated with variation in a quantitative trait, which is a trait that can be measured on a continuous scale. Identifying QTLs helps in understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits and can aid in breeding programs and evolutionary studies.
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Breeding programs are systematic approaches to improve plant and animal species by selecting desirable traits and managing reproduction to enhance genetic qualities over generations. These programs play a crucial role in agriculture, conservation, and biotechnology by increasing productivity, resilience, and sustainability of species.
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Breeding value estimation is a statistical approach used in genetics to predict the genetic potential of an individual as a parent, based on its own performance and the performance of its relatives. This estimation is crucial for selective breeding programs aimed at improving desirable traits in livestock, plants, or other organisms by choosing individuals with the highest predicted genetic merit.
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Animal breeding is the selective mating of animals to enhance desirable traits in their offspring, a practice that combines principles of genetics and statistics to improve livestock, pets, and wildlife populations. It involves the careful selection of parents based on specific characteristics, such as productivity, health, and adaptability, to ensure the propagation of these traits in future generations.
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Precision breeding is an advanced form of genetic modification that allows for more targeted and efficient alteration of an organism’s DNA to enhance desirable traits, such as drought resistance or nutritional value. It leverages technologies like CRISPR to make precise edits, minimizing unintended changes and the lengthy timelines traditionally associated with conventional breeding techniques.
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Breeding techniques are essential methodologies in genetics and agriculture to enhance desired traits and increase the genetic diversity of plant and animal species. These techniques range from traditional methods like selective breeding to more advanced practices such as genetic engineering and CRISPR gene editing.
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