Techniques for Increasing Trait Heritability
Heritability can be increased by-
- Providing uniform environment (or) by reducing environmental variation
- Increasing number of records per animal
- By adjustment of record & accurate measurement of data
- All are correct — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All are correct
Heritability (h²) can be practically improved by three approaches — all listed are correct and complementary.
Techniques to Increase h²
| Technique | Mechanism | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Providing uniform environment / reducing VE | Standardise housing, nutrition, management for all animals | VE ↓ → VP ↓ → h² = VG/VP ↑ |
| Increasing number of records per animal | Repeated measurements (lactations, fleece weights) are averaged → temporary environmental effects averaged out → better estimate of true genetic value | Reduces within-animal environmental variance |
| Adjustment of records & accurate measurement | Statistically correct records for known systematic effects (age, season, parity, lactation length) using standard adjustments (e.g., 305-day mature equivalent for dairy) | Removes non-genetic biases → purer genetic signal |
The Common Thread
- All three methods reduce VE or its effect on estimates, thereby increasing the ratio h² = VG / VP
- Higher h² → individual selection is more effective → faster genetic gain
📚 About this Topic — Animal Genetics & Breeding
This multiple choice question is from Animal Genetics & Breeding, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Genetics & Breeding to strengthen your preparation.
