Question

Differentiate between inbreeding and out breeding in cattle. State one advantage and disadvantage for each

Answer 1

Inbreeding refers to the mating of more closely related individuals within the same breed for 4-6 generations.

Advantage - Inbreeding increases homozygosity. Thus inbreeding is necessary if we want to evolve a pure line in any animal.

Disadvantage - Continued inbreeding, usually reduce fertility and even productivity. This is called inbreeding depression.

Crossbreeding refers to the mating of superior males of one breed with superior females of another breed.

Advantage - This allows the desirable qualities of two breeds to be combined.

Disadvantage - Will loose homozygosity.