inbreeding
/'inənd'in/ Cách viết khác : (inbreeding) /in'bri:diɳ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. The act or process of mating or breeding between closely related individuals: This term specifically refers to the biological practice of reproducing with genetically similar organisms, typically those sharing a recent common ancestor. It is most commonly discussed in the contexts of animal husbandry, plant cultivation, and population genetics. 2. The state or result of such mating: It can also describe the genetic condition or the offspring produced from such unions, which often leads to a reduction in genetic diversity.
Usage
- Inbreeding is a technical term used primarily in biology, genetics, agriculture, and conservation science.
- It is often discussed in contrast to outbreeding (mating between unrelated individuals).
- The term carries a neutral scientific tone but often implies negative consequences, such as an increased risk of genetic disorders or reduced fitness in the population.
Examples
- The inbreeding of the isolated wolf pack led to a higher incidence of health problems.
- To preserve the rare breed's unique traits, some controlled inbreeding was practiced by the breeders.
- Scientists studied the effects of inbreeding on the small island population of birds.
- The genetic defects were a direct result of generations of inbreeding.
Advanced Usage
- Inbreeding depression: A key concept in population genetics referring to the reduced biological fitness in a given population as a result of inbreeding.
- Example: The zoo animals showed signs of inbreeding depression, including lower fertility rates.
Variants and Related Words
- Inbreed (verb): To breed or reproduce from closely related individuals.
- Example: The isolated community had been inbreeding for centuries.
- Inbred (adjective): Describing an organism produced by or resulting from inbreeding; can also be used metaphorically to describe something deeply ingrained.
- Example (biological): The inbred strain of mice is used for laboratory research.
- Example (metaphorical): His love for music was inbred, passed down from his family.
Synonyms
- Consanguineous mating (formal, technical)
- Close breeding (specific to animal husbandry)
- Endogamy (specifically refers to marriage within a specific social or ethnic group)
Antonyms
- Outbreeding
- Crossbreeding
- Exogamy
Noun
- the act of mating closely related individuals