artificial selection Flashcards
What is artificial selection?
A human-driven process where organisms with desirable traits are bred to enhance those traits in future generations.
How does artificial selection differ from natural selection?
Artificial selection is faster, controlled by humans, and leads to less variation, while natural selection is driven by environmental pressures and maintains more genetic diversity.
What was the ancestor of domestic dogs?
The Grey wolf (Canis familiaris).
What is a downside of inbreeding in pedigree dogs?
Increased risk of genetic disorders, deformities, and vulnerability to diseases due to reduced genetic variation.
Why are mongrel (outbred) dogs often healthier?
They have greater genetic variation, making them more robust and disease-resistant.
What is an example of artificial selection in crops?
Modern maize (corn) was selectively bred from a wild grass to have larger ears, fewer stems, and higher yield.
What traits were selected for in maize domestication?
Larger ears, fewer stems, reduced seed coat, and retention of seeds on the cob.
